President Donald Trump met with Sanae Takaichi, Japan’s newly appointed prime minister, during a significant visit to Tokyo on October 31, 2023. This occasion marks Takaichi’s first days in office, and she is tasked with reinforcing Japan’s relationship with the United States while navigating the complexities of economic negotiations and international diplomacy.
Trump and Takaichi exchanged pleasantries, including a firm handshake, during their meeting, where Trump remarked, “That’s a very strong handshake.” Takaichi engaged in friendly conversation about her anticipation for the third game of the U.S. World Series. She also announced Japan’s plans to gift Washington 250 cherry trees to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, alongside fireworks from Akita Prefecture for Independence Day celebrations.
Reflecting on previous relations, Takaichi acknowledged the influence of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who had developed a close rapport with Trump based on their shared interests, including golf. “Prime Minister Abe often told me about your dynamic diplomacy,” she stated. Trump praised Takaichi’s historic role as Japan’s first female prime minister, underscoring the U.S. commitment to Japan, saying, “Anything I can do to help Japan, we will be there.”
The discussions extended to economic matters, particularly a proposed $550 billion investment by Japan in the U.S. as part of a trade agreement. This investment aims to enhance cooperation between the two nations, with both leaders signing a document heralding a “golden age” for the U.S.-Japan alliance. The agreement includes a 15% tax on goods imported from Japan, reaffirming the framework for trade relations.
During a working lunch, Takaichi strategically chose to serve American beef and rice, blending Japanese ingredients to highlight the partnership. The two leaders also discussed global challenges, including efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, along with security matters related to North Korea.
In a ceremonial gesture, Takaichi presented Trump with a putter that belonged to Abe and a golf bag signed by renowned golfer Hideki Matsuyama. The occasion was light-hearted, with both leaders signing baseball caps that read “Japan is Back,” resembling Trump’s familiar “Make America Great Again” caps.
While Trump focused on trade and tariffs during his visit, he also addressed U.S. troops aboard the USS George Washington, an aircraft carrier stationed near Tokyo. He reiterated his commitment to national security and the U.S. economy, mentioning that Toyota is planning to invest $10 billion in American auto plants.
Trump’s visit to Tokyo follows his participation in the annual summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. At that summit, he urged Thailand and Cambodia to cease hostilities along their disputed border, leveraging trade agreements as incentives for peace.
As Trump prepares for a meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping later this week in South Korea, the atmosphere between the U.S. and China appears to be stabilizing. Senior negotiators from both nations indicated that a trade deal is progressing, which might alleviate some of the tensions that have characterized recent interactions.
Trump is scheduled to depart for South Korea on November 1, 2023, where he will participate in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit.
