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In the course of a recent visit to Tokyo, ex- American leader Trump and Japan's new Premier Takaichi exchanged friendly praise and vowed to enhance the currently robust bilateral ties.

Highlights from the Encounter

Donald Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ figure and applauded her on assuming the role of Japan's first female premier. In their discussions at Tokyo's official venue, Trump expressed optimism that she would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

The prime minister, identified as a close associate of former Japanese leader Abe, praised his initiatives to address global disputes and according to sources vowed to put forward him for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Security Agreements

Both governments announced a list of joint initiatives in areas such as power, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japanese firms are considering funding of up to $400 billion in the US.

Furthermore, Japan had earlier pledged $550 billion in strategic American projects, loans, and guarantees as part of an agreement to secure exemption from Trump's import duties.

Such moves are viewed as potentially easing any future requests from the US side for Japan to increase its military spending. The prime minister responded to this by promising to accelerate plans to raise defense spending to 2% of GDP.

Other US Politics Updates

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a third term, although it is constitutionally impossible. Trump stated he ‘would like’ to run again but won't exploit a VP workaround.
• Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib responded to his statements, 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 America’s biggest government employees union demanded an end to the federal closure, which is now the second-longest in American history.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson blasted Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries for supporting a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun announced a special session to redraw congressional districts.
• Democratic figures in several states are considering map changes in reaction to GOP efforts.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” Trump said to Takaichi. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he continued.

The meeting highlights the continuing significance of the US-Japan alliance and sets the stage for further collaboration on economic, security, and foreign policy areas.