The meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on the 7th (local time) was held in a friendly atmosphere. In particular, Ishiba was noted for making efforts to accommodate Trump's mood with an extremely gracious attitude.
After shaking hands with Ishiba, President Trump responded to a reporter's question about "What is the message to Japan?" by saying, "We love Japan." He poured praises on Ishiba, calling him "a very respected person" and "doing a tremendous job."
Prime Minister Ishiba began responding to Trump's compliments by mentioning the moment when Trump was shot during a campaign rally last July, injured his ear, and raised his fist. Ishiba said, "It will be remembered as the most unforgettable scene," adding, "God saved you."
After the summit, President Trump announced in a joint statement that Japan would import U.S.-made liquefied natural gas (LNG) on a historic scale. The expansion of Japan's imports of U.S. LNG was cited as a key card for Japan to respond as Trump pressured Japan on defense spending increases, the burden of costs for U.S. troops stationed in Japan, and reciprocal tariffs.
However, Ishiba noted, "It's a really good thing that Trump was able to resume imports on the day of his inauguration, which the previous Biden administration did not allow." He added, "We want to contribute to improving the U.S. trade deficit with Japan. I am very grateful to President Trump."
After the summit, Ishiba expressed in a press conference in front of reporters from both countries, "I hope to open a golden age of U.S.-Japan relations together with the respected President Trump based on various achievements."
Regarding his first impression of President Trump, he said, "I have been watching him on TV for a long time, so it was very exciting to meet him in person," adding, "I thought he had a very scary and strong personality, but after meeting him, I felt he was sincere and a leader with a strong will."
In response to a question regarding Trump's announcement of reciprocal tariffs on whether Japan would retaliate if the U.S. imposed tariffs on Japanese products, he said, "I cannot answer hypothetical questions. That is our government's official position."
President Trump responded, "That's a very good answer and a very good response," saying, "Wow. He (Ishiba) knows what he is doing."