Japan’s new prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, has pledged to usher in a “golden age” of Japan–US relations as she met with Donald Trump in Tokyo at the start of his Asia tour.
During their meeting, the two leaders swiftly signed an agreement outlining a framework to ensure the mining and processing of rare earths and critical minerals, a move seen as a response to China’s tightening export controls on such essential materials. The White House said the deal aims to strengthen cooperation through economic policy coordination and joint investment to build diversified, transparent, and resilient markets for these key resources.
According to the joint statement, the objective is to “enhance resilience and security of critical minerals and rare earths supply chains” for both nations.
Takaichi and Trump
Takaichi and Trump, who last week became Japan’s first female prime minister, told reporters, “I want to realise a new golden age of the Japan–US alliance, one that makes both countries stronger and more prosperous.”
Before their talks, the leaders shared a light moment watching Shohei Ohtani play in the World Series. Later, in private discussions, the White House noted that Takaichi plans to nominate Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, citing his role in brokering ceasefires in Gaza and between Thailand and Cambodia.
Takaichi and Trump Both leaders paid tribute to former prime minister Shinzo Abe, with whom Trump had a close friendship during his first term. Speaking on the same day as the opening of the trial of Abe’s alleged assassin, Trump called Abe a “great friend” who had “spoken so well” of Takaichi long before her rise to leadership.
Their talks focused on trade and security, continuing negotiations from the tenure of former prime minister Shigeru Ishiba, who had secured tariff concessions in exchange for large Japanese investments in the US. Japan is also expected to increase imports of American soybeans, pickup trucks, and other goods to gain further trade relief.
Takaichi and Trump
In a joint statement, the leaders reaffirmed their “strong commitment to implementing this great deal,” saying it would “strengthen economic security, promote growth, and contribute to global prosperity.”
Takaichi and Trump described the US–Japan security alliance as “the greatest in the world,” pledging that Japan would continue to “contribute to world peace and stability.” ( Source )
Takaichi and Trump, who also met Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace, praised Japan’s purchases of US-made defense equipment and predicted booming trade between the two economies. Congratulating Takaichi on her historic achievement, he called it a “big deal” and expressed confidence in her leadership:
Anything I can do to help Japan, we’ll be there,” Trump said. “You’re going to do a fantastic job, and we’re going to have a fantastic relationship.”
