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Japan Gifts 250 Cherry Trees, Akita Fireworks to Washington as Leaders Sign Critical-Minerals Accords

The moves underscore a drive to deepen U.S.-Japan economic security through new critical-minerals cooperation.

Overview

  • Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced in Tokyo that Japan will donate 250 cherry trees to Washington to honor America250.
  • She said fireworks from Akita Prefecture will be presented in Washington on July 4 next year.
  • Takaichi and President Trump signed agreements on processing critical minerals and pledged cooperation toward a "golden age" in relations.
  • Reporting from the meeting indicates a brief document reaffirmed the July 2025 trade deal that lowered proposed U.S. tariffs to 15% in exchange for major Japanese investment and market access commitments.
  • Takaichi, who became Japan’s first female prime minister last week, opened the session by noting she and Trump had watched a World Series game together before talks.