Trump lauds Japan's pledge to invest $36 billion in U.S. oil, gas and critical mineral projects

Core Viewpoint - Japan has pledged to invest nearly $36 billion in oil, gas, and critical mineral projects in the U.S., marking the first tranche of a larger $550 billion investment deal following a trade agreement with the U.S. [1][2] Group 1: Investment Details - The investment includes a significant natural gas facility in Ohio, expected to generate 9.2 gigawatts of power, valued at $33 billion, making it the largest natural gas generation facility in history [4]. - The projects are part of a Strategic Investment Initiative aimed at promoting mutual benefits and enhancing economic security between Japan and the U.S. [3]. Group 2: Trade Agreement Context - The trade deal includes a reduction of tariffs on most Japanese imports to 15%, which is seen as a crucial factor enabling these large-scale investments [2]. - Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi emphasized that these initiatives will strengthen the Japan-U.S. alliance and promote economic growth [3].