Key points
- $550 billion Japanese investment deal discussed
- US-Japan alliance reinforced through agreements
- Trump addresses ASEAN summit, discusses ceasefire
TOKYO: President Donald Trump kicked off one of the busiest days of his Asia trip on Tuesday by warmly greeting Japan’s newly appointed prime minister, Sanae Takaichi. He later planned to address US troops aboard an aircraft carrier and engage with business leaders.
While Japan remains a close US ally, Trump’s visit comes amid uncertainty. Takaichi, Japan’s first female prime minister, needs to solidify her ties with Trump while defending her country’s economic interests. Trump is pushing for $550 billion in Japanese investments as part of a trade deal to reduce US tariffs, reports AP News.
During their meeting, Trump complimented Takaichi on her firm handshake, and she responded by mentioning her enjoyment of the US World Series. She also announced that Japan would gift 250 cherry trees to the US for its 250th anniversary next year, along with fireworks for Independence Day celebrations.
Japan’s first female prime minister
Takaichi praised former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, her mentor, for his close bond with Trump, which was forged through shared interests like golf. Trump called Takaichi’s role as Japan’s first female prime minister a “big deal” and reiterated US commitment to Japan, stating, “Anything I can do to help Japan, we will be there.”
Trump also addressed concerns about Japan’s purchase of American vehicles, especially the Ford F-150, which he felt was too wide for Japan’s narrow streets.
The two leaders signed an agreement reinforcing their alliance and a second one aimed at securing critical minerals and rare earths supplies.
Trump’s visit also included a ceremonial meeting with Japan’s emperor and participation in the ASEAN summit in Malaysia, where he celebrated a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia. He is set to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea later this week.
