How Japan’s New Prime Minister Won Trump Over During His Visit

US-Japan Relations & Political Dynamics - The summit between President Trump and Japan's new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi aimed to strengthen relations despite previous trade and defense spending disagreements [1][3] - Trump expressed strong support for Takaichi, potentially mirroring his relationship with former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe [4][11][12] - The leaders pledged to usher in a "golden age" of US-Japan relations [9] Defense & Security - Takaichi committed to increasing Japan's defense spending, aiming for 2% of GDP by the end of the fiscal year [5][6] - Japan has made significant orders for US weapons, particularly missiles for the F35 [6][7] - The leaders visited the USS George Washington, highlighting its importance in the Pacific defense [7] - Japan is eager to boost military spending and play a bigger role in the defense of the Pacific [8] Trade & Investment - Japan is committed to investing $550 billion in the US [9] - The Ministry of Finance has identified projects for US-Japan collaboration in areas like artificial intelligence, infrastructure, and energy [10] - Several Japanese and US companies are interested in participating in these projects [10]