Trump vows stronger than ever US-Japan alliance in Tokyo visit

President Donald Trump has promised to elevate US-Japan relations to their strongest level ever during his meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in Tokyo. The leaders emphasized enhanced military cooperation and economic ties as they prepare to sign new agreements covering trade and technology.

Strengthening Military and Economic Ties

Trump expressed his "great love and respect" for Japan, assuring Takaichi that the United States would support Tokyo "for any question, any doubt, anything you want." He acknowledged Japan's substantial military expansion, noting Washington had received "orders for a very large amount of new military equipment." The president also highlighted record bilateral trade levels and a pending "very fair" new trade deal between the two nations.

Vision for a New Golden Age

Prime Minister Takaichi articulated her goal to "realize a new golden age of the Japan-US Alliance," where both nations would become "stronger and also more prosperous." She thanked Trump for his "unwavering commitment towards peace and stability," noting that "the world started to enjoy more peace on the ground" during his administration. The Japanese leader also emphasized restoring Japanese diplomacy to protect national interests while advancing cooperation for a "free and open Indo-Pacific."

Expanding Cooperation and Itinerary

According to Kyodo news agency sources, Japan and the US plan to sign agreements covering shipbuilding, artificial intelligence and advanced communications technologies. Following the meeting, Trump scheduled a visit to a US naval base near Tokyo and a tour of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier George Washington before attending a meeting with Japanese business leaders. The Tokyo stop precedes Trump's travel to South Korea for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit.