TOKYO, Oct 28 – U.S. President Donald Trump showered commendation on Japan’s newly appointed prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, during his visit to Tokyo on Tuesday, highlighting her commitment to strengthening Japan’s defense capabilities. The visit also marked the signing of major deals covering trade, rare earths, and critical minerals, reflecting closer economic and strategic cooperation between the two nations.
Takaichi assumed office just a week ago, stepping into the role once held by the late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, a close ally and golfing companion of Trump. During their meetings, Takaichi frequently referenced Abe’s legacy, presenting the U.S. president with symbolic gifts, including Abe’s putter encased in glass, a golf bag signed by Japanese golf champion Hideki Matsuyama, and a gold-leaf golf ball. She also conveyed her intention to nominate Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, a gesture praised by his spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt.
The discussions between the leaders focused on enhancing security and expanding trade. Both governments announced collaborative projects in energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals, with Japanese companies considering investments of up to $400 billion in the United States. Earlier commitments from Tokyo had pledged $550 billion in strategic U.S. investments, loans, and guarantees, a significant factor in easing tensions over past trade disputes.
Trump expressed his admiration for Takaichi’s appointment, describing it as “a big deal” and forecasting her as one of Japan’s most influential prime ministers. “From what I’ve learned from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be one of Japan’s great prime ministers,” he told Takaichi at the Akasaka Palace, accompanied by senior aides. The conversation underscored Trump’s continued influence on Japan’s defense and trade policies, as well as the importance of personal diplomacy in his approach.
Strengthening Japan-U.S. Relations Through Economic and Defense Initiatives
Takaichi emphasized the enduring bond between Trump and the late Abe, reinforcing her own political position at home. Alongside symbolic gestures, she provided Trump with a detailed map highlighting major investments by Japanese companies in the United States since his last visit in 2019. Leading corporations involved included Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, SoftBank, Hitachi, Murata Manufacturing, and Panasonic. Automotive giant Toyota announced plans to invest $10 billion in new plants in the United States, while Ford’s F-150 pickup truck was chosen as a symbol of Japan’s commitment to U.S. trade relations.
A significant highlight of the visit was the signing of an agreement on rare earths and critical minerals, aimed at reducing reliance on China for essential electronic components. This pact demonstrates the strategic importance both nations place on securing supply chains vital to technology, defense, and industrial sectors.
In addition to economic matters, the leaders discussed regional security challenges. Trump praised Japan’s increased defense spending plans, while Takaichi commended Trump’s efforts in brokering ceasefires in Cambodia, Thailand, and the Middle East. The meeting also addressed the longstanding issue of Japanese citizens abducted by North Korea in the 1960s and 1970s. While some abductees were later repatriated, Japan continues to demand full accountability and the return of any remaining captives. Trump reiterated U.S. support for these families and expressed openness to meeting North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during his ongoing Asia tour.
Military Display and Public Engagement at Yokosuka Naval Base
Later in the day, Trump and Takaichi visited the U.S. aircraft carrier George Washington at Yokosuka naval base. The president delivered an hour-long speech before 6,000 U.S. sailors, touching on topics ranging from domestic issues to American sports. Introducing Takaichi to the troops, Trump called her “a winner,” highlighting Japan’s reliance on U.S. military presence in the region.
The event also coincided with announcements of Japan’s long-awaited order of U.S. missiles for F-35 fighter jets, marking a milestone in defense cooperation. Trump concluded his Tokyo visit with discussions with Japanese business leaders, including SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son, during a light-hearted exchange about golf, emphasizing the personal rapport that has historically shaped U.S.-Japan relations.
Trump’s trip to Asia, which began in Malaysia, continues with a visit to South Korea, where he is scheduled to meet President Lee Jae Myung before concluding with a planned summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Analysts suggest that Takaichi’s careful invocation of Abe’s legacy, combined with her proactive engagement with Trump, positions her as a key figure capable of navigating both domestic political challenges and complex international negotiations.