Praise, Nobel nominations, and promises of foreign investment were key features of Donald Trump's visit to Japan on Tuesday, where he was warmly welcomed by newly-elected Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
The two leaders not only signed a significant deal on critical minerals but also reinforced the commitment to a new 'golden age' of US-Japan relations, emphasizing previous agreements including a reduced 15% tariff deal.
Trump was met with a full military honor guard at Akasaka Palace, a venue that reflected the opulence he favors. During their lunch—which included 'American rice and American beef, deliciously made with Japanese ingredients'—Trump congratulated Takaichi for her historic inauguration as Japan's first female prime minister.
Accompanied by Takaichi, Trump toured the USS George Washington, where they were greeted by thousands of cheering American troops. Takaichi declared the US-Japan alliance as the 'greatest alliance in the world' while reaffirming her commitment to increase Japan's defense spending, an area Trump has often critiqued.
This meeting represented an early test for Takaichi, who must navigate the delicate balance of strengthening ties with the US while managing trade relationships with other nations, particularly China. She presented Trump with a collection of golf gifts, including a signed golf bag by notable Japanese golfer Hideki Matsuyama, symbolizing goodwill between the two leaders.
As Trump concludes his week-long Asia tour with a visit to South Korea and a meeting with China's Xi Jinping, the dialogues held in Japan underscore the intricate web of diplomacy Takaichi must navigate as she positions her government on the global stage.
