U.S. President Donald Trump meets Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba for the first time Friday as both nations seek to strengthen security and business ties while navigating rising tensions with China.
Trump, who has shaken global norms in his early weeks, has maintained a conventional approach to allies like Japan, South Korea, and Australia. However, trade frictions persist, with Trump’s tariffs and deficit concerns looming over talks.
A senior U.S. official said discussions will cover military training, defense technology, cybersecurity, and joint AI and semiconductor investments. “The U.S. is proud of our close alliance with Japan,” the official noted, emphasizing deterrence in the region.
Japan, heavily reliant on trade, watches warily as Trump pressures China over tariffs and synthetic opioids. Tokyo shares Washington’s concerns over Beijing’s global ambitions but fears potential U.S.-China cooperation at its expense.
Ishiba, in office since October, seeks to build a strong rapport with Trump, who was close to former PM Shinzo Abe. Japan is preparing concessions to ease trade tensions, including increased LNG purchases and support for a $44 billion Alaskan gas pipeline.
Tensions also extend to Nippon Steel’s attempted U.S. Steel takeover, which Trump has vowed to block. Despite these challenges, the leaders are expected to reaffirm security commitments, particularly on China, Taiwan, and North Korea.
Trump and Ishiba will hold a joint press conference Friday afternoon.
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