Trump and Takaichi Meet at UN to Showcase Japan-US Alliance Ahead of Xi Visit

US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi met on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Tuesday, using the occasion to project the strength of the Japan-US alliance.

The meeting came just ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's three-day state visit to Washington, and Japanese media reported that the two leaders discussed a range of issues, including China. They agreed to further strengthen the deterrence and response capabilities of the bilateral alliance.

Speaking at the start of the talks, Takaichi said she wanted to reiterate her gratitude for Trump's strong commitment to the alliance. She noted that the security environment, including in Asia, has become increasingly severe, and said that holding another round of meetings at UN headquarters offered an opportunity to show the world how robust the Japan-US relationship is.

Trump described the prime minister as a friend and said it was an honour to be with her, adding that the two had come to know each other well. In a lighter moment, he joked about the speed of his interpreter, laughing and praising the performance. When Takaichi asked for her turn to speak, Trump later told those in the room, "Well, you heard her. She's the boss."

The encounter follows a period of tension between Japan and China. Takaichi's remark in November that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could amount to a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan, requiring the use of force, drew sharp criticism from Beijing and led to diplomatic and economic reprisals.

The bilateral meeting at the UN was presented by both sides as a signal of continuity and coordination between Washington and Tokyo as the US prepares to host Xi.