Ed ~ This is day 2 in Japan.
As part of Liberty Nation’s deep dive analysis of President Donald Trump’s tour of Asia, we’ll be examining what events take place, the significance of them, and most importantly, how the media are spinning it. Welcome to Day 2 of the Grand Tour:
After a successful first day in Japan in which the president worked on cementing his unique relationship with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the world’s media watches on hoping that President Trump will make some kind of gaff and allow them the opportunity to gloat once more. To read about yesterday’s events, check out Day 1 Japan on LN.
The Background
Yesterday was a day for renewing the “friendship,” as is the Japanese custom; which means that today’s events will likely involve a lot more serious talk, business development, and “big asks” from both sides. Insiders have been expecting a move to increase business and military cooperation; whilst these might not take place in the public forum, there’s a good chance that announcements will be forthcoming.
The Events
President Trump and Prime Minister Abe took in the world-famous Koi fish ponds at the palace and met with the Emperor and Empress. The two leaders also held a joint press conference where the president addressed the Texas shooting, North Korea and trade deals.
The Expectations
The president will definitely be looking to calm investors and encourage business markets back home with a view to building on the fast-growing economy. While no deals will actually be signed, investors will be watching closely for positive signs from the Japanese government that they are open to moving manufacturing into the U.S. and that they are looking to spend on key areas.
Prime Minister Abe will be looking for one thing only today: strong assurances that America (and specifically the president) will be right behind his country in dealing with North Korea. It is possible that some deals will be made on American weapons with provisos that include more U.S. troops to “help” set them up.
The Spin
The biggest trending story to come out of Japan is the president’s experience with the Koi fish. During a traditional “bonding” ceremony, the leaders fed the fish from small boxes with spoons. The U.S. media are in fits because they seem to think that dropping the rest of the food in would either kill the fish or insult the Japanese.
First, the pond is enormous. Second, the boxes are measured out to be the exact right amount of food. And third, and most importantly, Shinzo Abe did the exact same thing first!
Behind the Curtain
With the pleasantries out of the way, today is the day for the leaders to get “gentlemen’s agreements” on joint policy going forward. There are three things that will definitely be on the table behind closed doors.
Prime Minister Abe will be asking the president to help manage efforts against (and in defense from) North Korea with the new South Korean government. Relations are cordial but not strong, Abe will want President Trump to help make the bridge.
Talks will be had about the continued presence of the U.S. military in Japan. Right now, it is vital for Abe to have the support of the international community behind him for dealing with Kim Jong Un, the placement of U.S. military means that any attack against Japan is an attack against America.
Whilst many in the economics media have pointed out that President Trump’s request for Japan to build more cars IN the U.S. may seem pointless (as many of the Japanese cars are already made in North America), the men will have likely discussed the possibility of bringing more manufacturing in from Canada and Mexico.
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Check back in with Liberty Nation tomorrow to get more on this historic Grand Tour.
