As Democrats and Republicans continue to spar in the US over the government shutdown, we’re also covering the latest from President Donald Trump’s Japan leg of his Asia diplomacy tour.
Earlier Monday, Trump was warmly received by Japan’s Emperor Naruhito at Tokyo’s Imperial Palace.
Next, the US president is expected to meet with the country’s new prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, for the first time on Tuesday morning local time (Monday night US eastern time).
Expected topics: The two leaders will hold bilateral talks and though the US-Japan alliance is one of the world’s strongest, Takaichi’s limited diplomatic experience and Trump’s unpredictability make their first meeting a crucial test.
Their talks are expected to cover tariffs, regional security and Japan’s defense spending, all points of tension in recent months. Within Japan’s conservative ruling party, some worry Washington’s commitment to the Indo-Pacific is fading, as it demands more from allies.
Then, Tuesday afternoon local time, Trump will visit with US troops aboard the USS George Washington, which is docked at the Yokosuka Air Base, and give a speech. He’ll dine with business leaders later in the evening.
The president will then depart for South Korea on Wednesday morning local time.