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In the course of a recent visit to Tokyo, ex- American leader Donald Trump and the Japanese new Premier Sanae Takaichi shared warm praise and vowed to enhance the currently strong bilateral ties.

Key Points from the Encounter

Trump praised Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and congratulated her on becoming the nation's inaugural woman premier. In their talks at the capital's official venue, Trump expressed confidence that she would prove to be one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of the country.

Takaichi, identified as a protégée of late Japanese leader Abe, praised his efforts to address international disputes and reportedly vowed to nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Security Deals

Both governments revealed a list of joint initiatives in areas such as energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Japanese companies are considering investments of up to $400bn in the US.

Furthermore, Japan had previously pledged $550bn in strategic US investments, financing, and assurances as part of an agreement to obtain relief from Trump's import duties.

Such actions are viewed as potentially reducing any future demands from Trump for Tokyo to boost its military expenditure. Takaichi addressed this by committing to fast-track proposals to increase military budget to 2% of gross domestic product.

Other Political Developments

• Trump left the door open to a another term, although it is constitutionally impossible. He remarked he ‘would love’ to run again but won't exploit a vice presidential loophole.
• Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib reacted to Trump's comments, saying, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom suggested he will decide on a White House bid after the upcoming elections.
• The head of the US biggest federal workers union called for an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second-longest in American history.
• Republican leader Johnson criticized Democratic leader Jeffries for supporting a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• Indiana governor Mike Braun announced a special session to reconsider electoral maps.
• Democratic leaders in various regions are planning redistricting in response to Republican actions.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” Donald Trump said to the prime minister. “I also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he added.

The meeting underscores the ongoing importance of the US-Japan alliance and sets the stage for further collaboration on economic, defense, and foreign policy fronts.