Japan's PM Takaichi, Trump pledge ‘golden age’ in bilateral ties

During the visit, both sides signed an agreement on critical minerals and rare-earth supply chains to ensure resource security amid global market volatility. Takaichi, Japan’s first female prime minister, praised Trump’s diplomatic role in mediating international conflicts and said she would nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize, according to the White House. Trump, who described Japan as “an ally at the strongest level,” praised Takaichi as “one of the greatest prime ministers” and reaffirmed Washington’s “unwavering partnership” with Tokyo in commerce, defence, and global security.

Strategic cooperation and economic partnership

The newly signed minerals agreement aims to enhance resilience and ensure access to vital resources, particularly following China's earlier imposition of restrictions on its rare-earth exports this month. The deal reflects the two nations’ shared priority of ensuring economic security and diversifying critical supply chains.

Trump’s Asia tour, including visits to Malaysia and South Korea, aims to promote trade talks with China and reduce tensions that have unsettled global markets. Both Beijing and Washington have confirmed a “framework” for a possible trade agreement between the world’s two biggest economies.

Defence, diplomacy, and leadership

Prime Minister Takaichi reiterated her commitment to enhancing Japan’s defence capabilities, unveiling plans to reach the government’s goal of allocating 2 per cent of GDP to defence this year—two years ahead of schedule. This measure bolsters Tokyo’s broader move towards a more proactive security stance amidst increasing regional tensions. “I would like to realise a new golden age of the Japan–US Alliance, where both Japan and the United States will become stronger and more prosperous,” Takaichi said during the meeting.

Trump praised Takaichi’s leadership and cited her “strong friendship” with the late former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, reaffirming his confidence in Japan’s role as a cornerstone of regional stability.

Trade, industry, and future collaboration

Both leaders also discussed progress on bilateral trade and industrial cooperation. Most Japanese exports to the United States currently face tariffs of up to 15 per cent, contributing to a 24 per cent year-on-year drop in car export value in September. Despite these challenges, Japan continues to play a key role in the US economy, with $550 billion in planned investments under a prior agreement announced in July.

Trump will continue his Asia tour with a speech aboard the USS George Washington aircraft carrier at the US Naval Base in Yokosuka before heading to South Korea for a landmark meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The summit, expected to address trade and regional security, could mark a significant turning point in US–China relations.