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During a recent visit to Japan's capital, former US President Donald Trump and Japan's recently elected Prime Minister Takaichi shared warm praise and vowed to enhance the already robust bilateral relations.

Key Points from the Encounter

Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and applauded her on becoming the nation's inaugural female premier. In their talks at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, Trump expressed confidence that Takaichi would become one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of the country.

The prime minister, identified as a protégée of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, applauded Trump's efforts to address international conflicts and reportedly vowed to put forward Trump for the prestigious award.

Economic and Security Agreements

Both governments revealed a list of collaborative initiatives in sectors such as energy, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japanese companies are exploring funding of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Additionally, Japan had earlier pledged $550bn in long-term US investments, financing, and guarantees as part of an agreement to secure exemption from Trump's import duties.

Such moves are seen as possibly reducing any upcoming demands from the US side for Tokyo to boost its military expenditure. The prime minister addressed this by committing to fast-track proposals to increase military budget to 2% of GDP.

Additional US Politics Developments

• Trump did not rule out to a third term, although it is legally not permitted. He remarked he ‘would like’ to run again but won't use a VP workaround.
• A Michigan congresswoman Tlaib reacted to his statements, saying, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom indicated he will decide on a White House bid after the upcoming elections.
• The head of America’s biggest federal workers union demanded an end to the federal closure, which is now the second-longest in US history.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson criticized Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries for endorsing a candidate in the NYC mayoral election.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun announced a legislative meeting to reconsider congressional districts.
• Democratic leaders in various states are considering 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 told the prime minister. “I also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he continued.

The meeting highlights the ongoing importance of the American-Japanese partnership and paves the way for further collaboration on trade, defense, and foreign policy areas.