On October 28, 2025, US President Trump is meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takai, starting his busiest day in his Asian tour.
Today’s schedule includes meeting this newly elected conservative leader. Trump will also deliver a speech to the US military on an aircraft carrier and engage in discussions with business leaders.
Takai has just taken office and may be seeking to establish a personal relationship with Trump to ease trade tensions. According to Japanese media reports, Takai will present Trump with a golf club once owned by former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, aiming to reignite the close relationship the two leaders had built on the golf course.
Another key aspect of this strategy may be Japan’s intention to propose purchasing a large number of Ford F-150 pickups and American soybeans.
Real-time coverage follows.
During their meeting, Trump praised Takai warmly, telling her, “We will extend a helping hand in any way I can to Japan.”
He said, “You will do a great job, and we will build a great relationship.”
Trump also praised Takai for becoming the first female to hold this position, calling it “a great achievement.”
“You will be a great prime minister,” Trump told Takai, expressing his support extending to any “assistance you need.”
In her opening remarks, Takai mentioned former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and the strong friendship he had established with Trump during Trump’s first term as president.
She said, “In fact, Prime Minister Abe frequently spoke to me about your energetic diplomatic skills.”
During his speech, Trump said, “I greatly thank you, and congratulations.”
“Shinzo Abe is a good friend of mine,” added Trump. “He spoke highly of you.”
Trump mentioned that Abe would be pleased to hear about Takai becoming prime minister. Abe was assassinated during a campaign speech on July 8, 2022. Trump still feels sorrow when recalling Abe’s assassination.
The President arrived at the Akasaka Palace to meet with Japanese Prime Minister Takai.
Accompanying Trump are Secretary of State Rubio and Treasury Secretary Bennett.
While posing for photos, Trump shook hands with Takai, describing the handshake with this female leader as “very strong and firm.”
The US delegation also includes White House Press Secretary Levitt, who expressed her excitement to Takai, saying, “Congratulations, we are very excited for you.”
Trump and Takai are expected to continue their meeting.