Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is preparing to visit the U.S. for her second meeting with Donald Trump, reaffirming cooperation on security and economic issues, while her stance on the Middle East is under close observation.
On 18 March 2026 GMT+7, NHK News reported that Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is scheduled to visit the United States on Thursday to attend a summit with U.S. President Donald Trump. This will be the second meeting between the two leaders.
Reports state that Takaichi will depart Japan Wednesday evening heading to Washington, D.C. This marks her first visit to the U.S. since assuming office as prime minister, though it will be her second meeting with the U.S. leader.
During the discussions, the Japanese leader plans to emphasize the importance of the Japan-U.S. alliance, promoting cooperation across various areas including security, investment in the U.S. under bilateral agreements, and economic security, particularly concerning the supply chains of critical minerals.
Meanwhile, Japan’s stance on the tense situation in the Middle East is being closely watched. Previously, Takaichi told parliament there are no plans to assess the legality of U.S. military strikes during the summit. Trump has urged allied countries to send vessels to join security operations in the Strait of Hormuz. The Japanese leader stated that her government is considering feasible measures within the country’s legal framework.
Source: NHK