US President Donald Trump with Japan’s newly appointed minister of communications, Sanae Takaichi—in Tokyo on Monday. In many ways, this unusual meeting sets the agenda for a new era in international cooperation. Takaichi, to be sure, is Japan’s first female prime minister, coming into office during crises that will test her diplomatic acumen. This bilateral meeting is critical for deepening the US-Japan alliance. When it comes to upholding a free and open Indo-Pacific, their combined contributions are indispensable.
The meeting also promises to be a pivotal test for both leaders. Takaichi may have little diplomatic experience on her side, but she enters the position with the support of Japan’s powerful, conservative ruling party. Some party members express concerns regarding Washington’s commitment to the Indo-Pacific, especially given Trump’s unpredictable nature.
During the meeting, Trump praised former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, referring to him as “one of my best friends – one of, maybe, my closest friends in government.” He went on to highlight Abe’s strong connection with Takaichi that would have made Shinzo proud. He was such a great man – he loved you.
This meeting is especially meaningful, as it coincides with the start of trial against Abe’s alleged murderer. This timing, as unintentional as it may have been, enlivens our political discussions with a rare emotional poignancy. Families of Japanese citizens abducted by North Korean agents view this week’s meetings as an opportunity to finally make tangible progress. They too are looking forward to an end to their suffering.
In a show of commitment to strengthening ties, Takaichi remarked on the future of the alliance, declaring it a “new golden age of the Japan-US alliance.” Trump echoed this sentiment, stating, “This will be a relationship that will be stronger than any before and I look forward to working with you and on behalf of our country.” To reinforce his commitment to the alliance, he added, “we are an ally at the highest level.”
After their summit Trump is due to have more closed-door meetings with Japanese Emperor Naruhito. He is expected to visit US troops temporarily stationed on the USS George Washington at Yokosuka Air Base. We’ve been told that he plans to make a major speech while he’s in town.
The meeting between Trump and Takaichi serves to summarize an emerging conservative shift to the far right in international diplomacy. As leaders navigate complex relationships and historical contexts, their ability to collaborate will heavily influence future geopolitical dynamics.
