Ishiba, Trump Set for First Summit in D.C.

U.S. President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba are scheduled to hold their first summit meeting on February 7 in Washington, with a focus on strengthening economic and security cooperation. Ishiba, who recently took office, seeks to establish a strong personal relationship with Trump amid shared concerns about China's growing influence. Discussions are expected to cover Japan's increased defense budget and job creation by Japanese companies in the U.S., as well as reaffirming U.S. defense commitments under the Japan-U.S. Security Treaty. Ishiba aims to elevate the Japan-U.S. alliance, particularly in ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Trump, known for his 'America First' policy, may request higher tariffs on Japanese imports and further increases in Japan's defense spending. The meeting is seen as a crucial step in deepening the longstanding alliance between the two nations.