Japan PM Takaichi, US President Trump Pledge 'Golden Age' for Alliance

During U.S. President Donald Trump's visit to Tokyo, he and Japan's first female Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi pledged a new golden age for the Japan-U.S. alliance, emphasizing strong bilateral cooperation and mutual prosperity. Their meeting, marked by warm exchanges recalling the late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's legacy, included signing agreements on critical minerals and rare earths supply chains, as well as cooperation on liquefied natural gas development and trade matters. Takaichi praised Trump's diplomatic efforts on regional issues including ceasefires and the Gaza deal, while Trump reaffirmed unwavering U.S. support for Japan and expressed condolences over Abe's death, highlighting the personal friendship that underpinned the alliance. The leaders also addressed North Korean abductions of Japanese citizens, with Trump assuring support for affected families. Symbolic gestures such as gifts linked to Abe's golfing friendship with Trump underscored the importance of their shared history in strengthening ties. This summit set the stage for enhanced security and economic collaboration amid broader geopolitical tensions involving China and North Korea.