Overview
- President Trump and Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi signed a White House–backed framework to secure critical minerals and rare earths, with both sides publishing joint project lists in energy, AI and critical technologies.
- Japan’s reported pledge of up to $550 billion in U.S. investments under a tariff-linked framework was touted by U.S. officials, though timing and mechanics remain unclear, with $490 billion in commitments cited at a Tokyo business dinner.
- The partners advanced industrial cooperation through a shipbuilding memorandum that includes a working group, standardization and potential cross-repairs, alongside plans to coordinate on vessel design and components.
- A deal covering tactical missiles for Japan’s F-35s moved forward, and Takaichi highlighted plans to raise defense spending to 2% of GDP as the leaders showcased the alliance aboard the USS George Washington.
- China urged Japan to respect regional security concerns after the show of unity, while Trump heads to South Korea next for planned talks with Xi Jinping where broader arrangements could be finalized.