British News Agency

The meeting, seen as an early test for Takaichi, marked the announcement of a “new golden age” for the alliance between the two countries.

The two leaders exchanged warm words: Trump noted that the late Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe had spoken very highly of Takaichi, while Takaichi praised Trump for his role in promoting peace.

Trump and Takaichi signed an agreement pledging to work toward a “new golden age” of their alliance. The deal strengthens earlier trade agreements signed between the two nations at the start of the year.

Japan’s exports to the United States will now be subject to a 15 percent tariff. The decision had been made previously but appeared to be finalized on Tuesday.

The two countries also signed an agreement to boost the supply and production of rare earth elements. The United States has been signing a series of similar deals with other nations to break China’s near-monopoly in the sector.

After Japan, Trump will fly to South Korea, where he is scheduled to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping.