George Glass arrived in Tokyo on Friday, perhaps an appropriate name for the new U.S. ambassador to Japan. Of the most commonly discussed issues, he appeared most optimistic about the ongoing tariff negotiations between the two nations. His appointment comes at a time of both profound challenge and opportunity. Now the U.S. and Japan are negotiating a deal 104 that has set off global alarm bells over how the agreement will harm global trade and the economy.
Glass’s main point was to emphasize their quality, an all-star cast of negotiators. He declared that “the cream of the crop” administration officials from both Japan and the U.S. are currently negotiating the tariff settlement. He pointed out that President Donald Trump has taken a very personal interest in these discussions and has made them a priority.
The negotiations are a deep deconstruction of Trump’s proposed tariff measures. These measures have been controversial, not just between the U.S. and Japan, but among other American allies who will be monitoring the outcome with great interest. The second round of negotiations just started in Washington. Initially, both parties were very amenable and willing to pick up the pace to have an agreement in place.
At a recent meeting at the White House between the U.S. and Japanese delegations, President Trump treated the Japanese delegation. It was headed by Tōhoku’s Economic Revitalization Minister, Ryosei Akazawa. This in-person discussion further emphasizes the significance of these negotiations, viewed as critical to each country’s economic future.
Beyond his optimism to reach a deal, Glass was the first to admit how tough this is going to be. He stated that discussions would need to address the U.S. trade deficit with Japan, which he described as “unsustainable and that’s the end of our economy if we keep going down this road.”
Reflecting on his arrival and responsibilities, Glass humorously remarked, “what I’d like to do first is to go home and take a nap,” highlighting the demanding nature of his new role. He’s still determined to spend more time helping the public understand the need for hard discussions on tariffs.
