US President Donald Trump praised Japan’s first female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, during a meeting in Tokyo on October 3, 2025. The discussions resulted in agreements aimed at strengthening military ties and enhancing trade relations, particularly in the critical minerals sector. Takaichi’s commitment to accelerating Japan’s military build-up was a focal point of the talks, which also included a significant rare earths deal.
During their meeting at Akasaka Palace, Trump expressed admiration for Takaichi, stating, “Everything I know from Shinzo and others, you will be one of the great prime ministers.” He specifically acknowledged the importance of her being Japan’s first female leader, calling it “a big deal.” Takaichi, a protégé of the late Shinzo Abe, went so far as to pledge to nominate Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize for his diplomatic efforts in resolving international conflicts.
As part of broader discussions, Japan is expected to unveil a package of investments worth $550 billion, which includes shipbuilding and a commitment to purchase US agricultural products, such as soybeans and gas. According to sources familiar with the negotiations, these gestures could help alleviate pressures on Japan to increase its defense spending in response to China’s growing military assertiveness. Takaichi has promised to fast-track plans to elevate Japan’s defense budget to 2% of GDP.
The meeting was underscored by a personal touch, as Takaichi presented Trump with gifts that included a golf putter once owned by Abe, a signed golf bag from Japanese golfer Hideki Matsuyama, and a gold-leaf golf ball. The camaraderie between the leaders was evident, as they enjoyed a lunch featuring US rice and beef, along with vegetables from Takaichi’s hometown of Nara.
Trump also acknowledged Japan’s efforts to procure more US defense equipment. Takaichi highlighted Trump’s role in facilitating ceasefires between various nations, describing these achievements as “unprecedented.” The leaders signed an agreement to enhance cooperation in securing supplies of critical minerals and rare earths, aiming to reduce reliance on China for essential components in electronics.
After their discussions, Trump met with families of individuals abducted by North Korea during the 1960s and 1970s. Japan continues to seek accountability from Pyongyang regarding these abductions, a cause championed by Abe.
Trump’s trip began in Malaysia on October 1, 2025, before arriving in Japan late on October 2. His journey marks his longest overseas visit since returning to the White House earlier in the year. He plans to conclude his trip with a summit in South Korea, where he hopes to negotiate a truce in the ongoing trade conflict with China‘s leader, Xi Jinping, on October 5.
Analysts suggest that Takaichi’s alignment with Abe’s legacy may strengthen her political standing domestically. Although her approval ratings have improved since taking office, her coalition government remains two votes short of a majority in the lower house of parliament.
Following the meetings, Trump and Takaichi visited the US aircraft carrier George Washington, docked at the Yokosuka naval base near Tokyo. The significance of these discussions and agreements highlights the evolving US-Japan relationship, particularly in the context of security and economic cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region.
