Donald Trump concluded his visit to Japan, hosted by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, with discussions covering critical minerals, trade agreements, and defense spending. Takaichi announced Japan's nomination of Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize and presented him with gifts. Trump described the US-Japan alliance as a "beautiful friendship."
Diplomatic Engagements and Statements
On Tuesday, Donald Trump met with Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Trump stated that the US would provide support to Japan. The leaders signed a critical mineral earths deal and a document affirming a "golden age" of US-Japan relations. This document reiterated commitment to earlier agreements, including a 15% tariff deal.
Trump was welcomed at the Akasaka Palace with a military guard of honor and band. During lunch, described as "American rice and American beef, deliciously made with Japanese ingredients," Trump congratulated Takaichi on becoming Japan's first female prime minister. Trump has previously advocated for Japan to purchase US rice.
Takaichi also accompanied Trump aboard the USS George Washington aircraft carrier, where they were greeted by American troops. Takaichi addressed the troops, referring to the "greatest alliance in the world" and pledging to increase Japan's defense spending. Trump has previously criticized Japan's defense expenditures and described a security treaty with Japan as "one sided" in April, citing US financial contributions to Japan's defense.
Ahead of their meeting, Trump expressed confidence in establishing a positive relationship with Takaichi, noting her connection to former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Trump referred to Abe as a "great ally and friend" and mentioned Takaichi's close philosophical alignment with Abe.
Key Discussions and Agreements
During the visit, Takaichi described Trump as a "partner in a new golden era" and acknowledged his role in Middle East peace efforts. She announced Japan's intention to nominate Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.
Takaichi presented Trump with golf-related gifts, including a golf bag signed by Hideki Matsuyama and a putter used by former Prime Minister Abe. They also signed two caps with the phrase "Japan is back." Trump reciprocated by describing Takaichi as a "close friend" and characterized the US alliance with Japan as a "beautiful friendship" originating from the post-war period.
Discussions focused on US demands for increased access to Japan's markets, specifically for cars, agriculture, and technology. Trump is pressing Japan to increase purchases of American rice and soybeans and to open its market to US vehicles. Japan, which is highly dependent on exports, particularly from its auto industry, has previously faced 24% tariffs on exports to the US. These tariffs have since been lowered to 15%, aligning with tariffs for other regional rivals such as South Korea.
President Trump's Asia Tour
Trump is undertaking a week-long tour in Asia. Following his visit to Japan, he is scheduled to travel to South Korea on Wednesday. He is expected to meet with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in South Korea on Thursday.