Japan’s newly elected Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi welcomed US President Donald Trump in Tokyo, marking the start of what both leaders called a “new golden age” in US-Japan relations.
The meeting featured high ceremony at the Akasaka Palace, where Trump was honored with a military guard and state banquet. Both leaders signed a rare earth minerals agreement and reaffirmed earlier trade commitments, including the 15% tariff deal reached earlier this year.
Over lunch, Trump congratulated Takaichi for becoming Japan’s first female prime minister. The meal featured American beef and rice — a symbolic gesture highlighting Japan’s purchase of US agricultural products.
Later, aboard the USS George Washington, Takaichi praised the strength of the alliance and pledged to boost Japan’s defense spending. Trump confirmed the first delivery of US missiles for Japan’s F-35 fighter jets, underscoring growing military cooperation.
Takaichi presented Trump with golf-themed gifts, including a signed bag by golfer Hideki Matsuyama and a putter once used by late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, signaling continuity in the strong bond between the two nations.
The visit also focused on trade and investment. Takaichi shared plans for Toyota’s $10 billion investment in US manufacturing. In return, Trump urged Japan to open its markets further to American products, especially rice, soybeans, and vehicles.
As Trump continues his Asia tour, which includes stops in South Korea and China, his meeting with Takaichi seems to be an early diplomatic test for Japan’s new leader — and a renewed effort to strengthen the US-Japan alliance amid shifting global dynamics.
