Trump hails Japan’s new PM, secures $550b in US investments

President Donald Trump praised Japan’s newly appointed Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Tuesday, highlighting her nation’s commitments to major U.S. energy and technology investments and signaling a strengthening of bilateral ties.

Takaichi, Japan’s first female prime minister, joined Trump during a visit to U.S. troops aboard the USS George Washington and participated in meetings that culminated in announcements of up to $550 billion in Japanese investments in the United States, including $100 billion each for nuclear projects led by Westinghouse and GE Vernova.

Trump described the day as a “victory lap,” emphasizing the strong U.S.-Japan alliance and pledging continued support. Takaichi, who drew on her ties to former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, also discussed cultural exchanges, including sending cherry trees and fireworks to mark America’s 250^th anniversary, and hosted a working lunch featuring Japanese-American cuisine.

The two leaders signed agreements promoting cooperation on critical minerals and rare earths, under a framework they called a “golden age” of bilateral relations. Trump also noted Toyota’s plan to invest $10 billion in U.S. auto plants.

Trump arrived in Tokyo on Monday, met the emperor, and is scheduled to continue his Asia trip with visits to South Korea and China to advance trade and regional security discussions.