Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi declared the development potential of the Japan-U.S. alliance "unlimited", stressing the partnership is "built on deep trust and strong, close cooperation". Her remarks, posted on X on 8/1, also expressed a desire to visit the White House this spring and continue cooperation to further strengthen the alliance.

Takaichi's statement followed the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP)'s landslide victory in Japan's House of Representatives election.

President Trump (left) shakes hands with Prime Minister Takaichi in Tokyo on 28/10/2025. Photo: AP

U.S. President Donald Trump congratulated the Japanese Prime Minister on Truth Social the same day. "You are a respected and very popular leader. Your bold and wise decision to call the election yielded tremendous results", he wrote.

The White House chief stated he was "very honored" to support Prime Minister Takaichi and her alliance, wishing the Japanese leader success. "The great people of Japan and those who voted with such enthusiasm will always have my strong support", he added.

The LDP secured at least 310 seats in the 8/1 election, equivalent to two-thirds of the 465 seats in Japan's House of Representatives. This marks the first time a party achieved such a feat in Japan since World War II, granting them the power to amend the constitution and enact bills even if rejected by the Upper House.

These results far exceeded the 198 seats the LDP held before the election and the 233 seats needed to control the agenda. This victory allows the LDP to hold a majority in Japan's House of Representatives without needing to ally with any other party, ensuring Ms. Takaichi can remain in power without policy compromises.

Ms. Takaichi, 64 years old, became Japan's first female Prime Minister in 10/2025, and her cabinet currently enjoys an approval rating of about 70%.

Thanh Tam (According to AFP, Reuters)