Former U.S. President Donald Trump praised Japan’s new Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, during their meeting in Tokyo on Tuesday, calling the United States and Japan “allies at the strongest level.” Takaichi, Japan’s first female prime minister, met Trump amid efforts to strengthen economic and diplomatic cooperation between the two nations.
During their meeting at the Akasaka Palace, Trump commended Takaichi’s leadership and said, “Anything I can do to help Japan, we will be there.” The two leaders signed agreements reinforcing bilateral collaboration, including one aimed at securing the supply of critical minerals and rare earths.
Takaichi expressed appreciation for the U.S.-Japan partnership and announced symbolic gestures, including Japan’s plan to gift 250 cherry trees to Washington next year to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. Both leaders highlighted the legacy of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who maintained close ties with Trump during his earlier tenure.
The meeting also touched on trade issues, with Trump emphasizing his goal to expand U.S. exports to Japan, particularly in the automobile sector. Both leaders described the agreements as marking a “golden age” in the U.S.-Japan alliance, underscoring a renewed commitment to regional stability and economic cooperation.