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Live: President Trump, PM Ishiba Address Press in White House East Room
Today inside the gilded East Room under heavy security, U.S. President Donald Trump and newly appointed Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba concluded their first joint press conference, capping a day of diplomacy, ceremonial greetings, and direct business announcements.
Opening Remarks
Emerging at 2:20pm, both leaders exchanged handshakes in front of a full press gallery. “It’s a great privilege to stand here with Prime Minister Ishiba, a man respected by his people and ours,” Trump began.
Ishiba, appearing composed, thanked Trump “most sincerely for the hospitality” and invoked former PM Shinzo Abe: “The friendship between our countries remains built on what you and Prime Minister Abe have achieved and will deepen under my government.”
Key Economic Announcements
President Trump disclosed, “Japan will purchase liquefied natural gas from the United States in record volumes. This alone could reduce the U.S. trade deficit with Japan to zero.”
Turning to the automotive sector, Trump referred to reported Japanese investments: “Nissan has agreed to invest heavily in U.S. Steel. And Prime Minister Ishiba tells me Japanese firms—Toyota, Isuzu, and more—will expand their U.S. production.” Ishiba confirmed, “Japan has been the largest investor in the United States for five years straight and plans to raise total investment.” He cited planned U.S. plant upgrades by Toyota, starting this April, and capital from SoftBank’s Masayoshi Son.
Security and Regional Commitments
Both leaders addressed regional security. Trump pledged that America remains “totally committed” to Japan’s defense, referencing the existing security treaty. Ishiba, via interpreter, stated, “We have affirmed we will enhance the deterrence and response capabilities of the Japan-U.S. alliance, working closely to address Indo-Pacific challenges.”
Tariff and Trade Talk
Answering a reporter’s shouted question, Trump added, “We want to work on reducing the trade deficit the right way. That’s what’s happening here today.” Ishiba replied, “Any such policy should be mutually beneficial, and discussions will continue.”
Human Moments
The pair traded light remarks. “I wish I was as handsome as him,” Trump quipped. Ishiba recounted being “very touched by your undaunted presence” after Trump’s attempted assassination last year.
Presser Wrap-Up
The conference ended at 2:58pm. Afterwards, Trump departed for Mar-a-Lago where he will attend the Super Bowl in New Orleans this weekend. Ishiba is slated for further bilateral meetings this evening.
Journalists remain on-site for follow-up and awaiting official joint statements from both governments. The East Room is now quiet, the buzz of cameras replaced by the rapid typing of correspondents.