US, Japan Leaders Discuss Tariffs Ahead of G7 Trade Talks

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and U.S. President Donald Trump held a 45-minute phone call to discuss tariffs, diplomacy, and security issues amid ongoing trade tensions between the two allies. Ishiba reiterated Japan's firm position on the removal of U.S.-imposed tariffs, particularly on steel and automobiles, while Trump did not make any specific concessions. The call also included discussions on economic security cooperation and regional diplomacy, with both leaders expressing interest in meeting in person at the upcoming G7 summit in Canada. This dialogue coincided with Japan’s top trade negotiator Ryosei Akazawa departing for Washington to engage in a third round of tariff negotiations aimed at resolving these trade disputes. Analysts view the call as a strategic effort by Japan to advance its trade agenda amid shifting geopolitical dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region. The outcome of the forthcoming talks and the G7 meeting is expected to significantly influence the future trajectory of U.S.-Japan economic and diplomatic relations.