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In the course of a latest trip to Tokyo, ex- US President Trump together with Japan's recently elected Prime Minister Takaichi shared warm compliments and pledged to enhance the currently robust two-way ties.

Highlights from the Meeting

Donald Trump praised Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and applauded her on assuming the role of the nation's first female prime minister. In their discussions at Tokyo's official venue, Trump expressed confidence that she would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of the country.

The prime minister, identified as a close associate of late Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, applauded Trump's initiatives to address international conflicts and according to sources pledged to nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Defense Deals

Both nations announced a list of collaborative initiatives in sectors such as energy, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japan-based firms are exploring investments of up to $400bn in the United States.

Furthermore, Japan had previously pledged $550bn in long-term American projects, loans, and assurances as part of an arrangement to obtain exemption from the former president's import duties.

Such actions are seen as potentially easing any future requests from Trump for Tokyo to boost its military expenditure. Takaichi addressed this by promising to fast-track plans to increase military budget to 2% of gross domestic product.

Additional US Politics Developments

• Donald Trump left the door open to a third term, though it is legally not permitted. Trump remarked he ‘would like’ to serve again but won't exploit a VP workaround.
• Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib responded to Trump's statements, saying, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• California Governor Newsom suggested he will determine on a White House bid after the upcoming elections.
• The leader of the US biggest government employees union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second longest in American history.
• Republican leader Johnson blasted opposition figure Hakeem Jeffries for supporting a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• The governor of Indiana Braun announced a legislative meeting to redraw electoral maps.
• Opposition figures in various regions are planning redistricting in response to Republican actions.

“Everything I know from Shinzo and others, you will be one of the great prime ministers,” Trump said to Takaichi. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he added.

The encounter underscores the ongoing significance of the American-Japanese alliance and paves the way for further cooperation on trade, security, and foreign policy fronts.