TOKYO (AP) — President Donald Trump kicked off a busy day in Asia on Tuesday, hosting a meeting with newly installed Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, addressing U.S. military personnel aboard an American aircraft carrier, and engaging with business leaders.
Despite being in one of America's most loyal allies, uncertainties loom over Trump's visit. Takaichi, who recently became Japan's first female prime minister, must navigate the complexities of her nation's economic interests while engaging in diplomacy with Trump, who is pushing for $550 billion in Japanese investments as part of a trade deal aimed at lowering U.S. tariffs.
The new prime minister's strategy may involve a charm offensive toward Trump, who has expressed frustration over Japan’s purchase of American vehicles, including a potential deal for Ford F-150 trucks, acknowledging practical obstacles of U.S. vehicles on Japan's narrow streets.
While Trump’s focus has been on trade and tariffs, he also sent messages of stability, speaking to U.S. troops stationed aboard the USS George Washington near Tokyo. His arrival in Japan followed a ceremonial meeting with the emperor, a prior engagement in Malaysia for the ASEAN summit, which emphasized regional cooperation.
In a related context, Trump’s engagement indicates efforts to cool down tensions with China ahead of anticipated discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping later this week in South Korea.
While trade negotiations appear to be making headway, details on their substance remain limited, calling into question if they will address longstanding economic issues effectively or simply restore previous conditions amidst rising geopolitical tensions in the region.
Trump is set to depart for South Korea on Wednesday, where he will attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit.
