On Monday, US President Donald Trump became the very first world leader to meet Naruhito, Japan’s new emperor, in anticipation of a news conference where the he is expected to discuss wide-ranging topics from trade to North Korea.
Donald Trump has been very busy celebrating his fun trip to Japan, where he is said to be making great progress on a trade deal, right in addition to taking in the culture.
President Donald Trump and Melania Trump, the first lady of the United States kicked off the formal visit to Japan with the new emperor and Empress Masako with handshakes and greetings at Japan’s Imperial Palace.
Naruhito took to the throne on May 1, revealing what has been tagged the era of “Reiwa,” or “beautiful harmony.”
Donald Trump then went on to visit Tokyo’s official state guest house to meet with Shinzo Abe, Japanese Prime Minister. They will later be a part of the joint news conference at Akasaka Palace.
However, the president’s 4-day trip has not been all business even on the second lengthy day of meeting for Donald Trump and Shinzo Abe, He and Abe also relaxed and enjoyed a round of golf on Sunday, took in a sumo match and had a couples dinner with their wives.
“We were able to exchange our views frankly in a cozy atmosphere. It was wonderful,” Abe said.
Trump said on Saturday that trade negotiations with the Japanese prime minister have been moving forward, specifically regarding beef and agriculture.
“Great progress being made in our Trade Negotiations with Japan,” Trump tweeted on Saturday. “Agriculture and beef heavily in play. Much will wait until after their July elections where I anticipate big numbers!”
In a speech before businessmen at the United States ambassador’s residence, Donald Trump claimed that Japan has enjoyed a trade advantage, but that the two countries were working on a bilateral trade deal.
“I would say that Japan has had a substantial edge for many, many years but that’s OK,” Trump said. “Maybe that’s why you like me so much.” He added that “we’ll get it a little bit more fair.” He suggested that removing barriers to U.S. exports to help achieve this goal.
In addition to trade, Trump told the media that he and Abe also covered subjects including the military.