Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi held her first conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday following a diplomatic row with China, describing their relationship as “extremely good friends.”
Takaichi said Trump told her she could “call him anytime,” signalling a warm personal rapport amid rising regional tensions.
The call came after Beijing criticised Takaichi’s remarks in parliament earlier this month, in which she suggested that a hypothetical Chinese attack on Taiwan could trigger a military response from Japan.
According to Takaichi, Trump also offered a brief overview of U.S.–China relations, including his recent conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping, who emphasised that Taiwan’s “return to China” remains central to Beijing’s policy.
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Despite the sensitive backdrop, Takaichi sought to reassure Tokyo that Trump’s support for Japan remains steadfast, noting that their personal bond is a stabilising factor.
Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara added that maintaining stable U.S.–China relations is “extremely important” for the international community, including Japan.
