On 7 February 2025, President Donald Trump welcomed Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba to the White House for discussions on the $68 billion trade deficit between the United States and Japan. Emphasising his commitment to reducing the imbalance, President Trump stated, "I think it will be very easy for Japan. We have a fantastic relationship. I don't think we'll have any problem. They want fairness also." During the meeting, President Trump announced that Nippon Steel would invest in U.S. Steel rather than proceed with a full acquisition— a deal that had drawn criticism from both his administration and that of former President Joe Biden. The Biden administration had blocked the $14.1 billion takeover in early 2025 due to national security concerns, a position Trump also endorsed. While discussing the matter, Trump mistakenly referred to Nippon Steel as "Nissan", the Japanese automaker, before correcting himself. He stressed that keeping U.S. Steel under American ownership remained a key priority, though he suggested that a partial investment from Nippon Steel could still benefit the U.S. steel industry through technological advancements. However, no formal agreement has been reached, and details regarding the potential investment remain uncertain. Prime Minister Ishiba acknowledged Trump’s concerns, pointing out that Japanese companies have been leading foreign direct investment in the United States for the past five years and expressing an intention to expand investment further. He also praised President Trump’s resilience, referencing his recovery from the assassination attempt in July 2024, and highlighted the enthusiasm in Japan regarding Trump's return to office. "It is not only among politicians, but also among the general public as well as business ... . There are many that were anxiously awaiting your comeback," Ishiba stated. Security issues, particularly concerning North Korea, were also discussed. President Trump signalled his willingness to rebuild diplomatic ties with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, reflecting on their previous relationship and its role in preventing conflict. "I got along with him very well. I thought the relationship stopped a war," Trump remarked. Looking ahead, President Trump has confirmed a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the United States next week to discuss strategies for ending the ongoing war in Ukraine, which has been ongoing for nearly three years. Additionally, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit the United States from 12 to 13 February, following an invitation from President Trump. This will be one of the first high-level diplomatic engagements of Trump's second term, with trade relations, defence cooperation, and regional security expected to dominate discussions. The United States remains India's largest trading partner, with bilateral trade surpassing $118 billion in the 2023/24 fiscal year. India is particularly eager to expand trade ties and negotiate easier access for skilled worker visas. However, Modi's visit comes amid criticism of his government over the treatment of 104 Indian immigrants deported from the U.S., part of President Trump's latest immigration policies.   📷 Photo Credit: A. Paes  ...