Trump Visits Japan to Strengthen Security, Trade Ahead of Xi Talks

President Donald Trump visited Japan in late October 2025 to reinforce the Japan-U.S. alliance amid regional security concerns involving China and North Korea. During his trip, he met with Emperor Naruhito and newly appointed Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, focusing on trade, investment, and defense cooperation, including discussions on Japan's $550 billion investment pledge to the U.S. and strengthening deterrence measures such as enhanced military capabilities and cooperation on rare earth mineral procurement. Japan is increasing its defense spending and acquiring advanced weapons systems in response to China's assertiveness, while the U.S. seeks greater financial contributions from Japan for hosting U.S. troops. The visit also included a planned speech on the USS George Washington aircraft carrier and underscored the importance of the longstanding security treaty between the two countries. Trump's Asia tour, which included stops in Malaysia and an upcoming meeting with China's Xi Jinping, aims to bolster regional stability and address ongoing trade tensions.