President Trump Press Conference With Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba of Japan, February 7th, 2025

2/2/2025

Timeline of Topics and Points:

0:00 - 2:00:
Opening remarks by President Trump praising the U.S.-Japan relationship, mentioning their military cooperation and economic ties.
2:00 - 4:00:
Trump discusses the importance of trade balance and hints at new tariffs or "reciprocal tariffs" to be announced the following week.
4:00 - 6:00:
Prime Minister Ishiba speaks through a translator about the productive nature of their discussions and the commitment to enhance Japan-U.S. relations.
6:00 - 8:00:
Trump addresses the Nippon Steel deal with U.S. Steel, clarifying it would be restructured as an investment rather than a purchase. He mentions upcoming meetings with Nissan (though he likely meant Nippon Steel).
8:00 - 10:00:
Discussion on Japan's investment in U.S. LNG (liquefied natural gas) and how it would benefit the U.S. economically.
10:00 - 12:00:
Ishiba discusses plans for Japanese technology transfer to U.S. Steel for better quality production in the U.S.
12:00 - 14:00:
Question from a journalist about the specifics of the tariffs Trump mentioned. Trump reiterates it would be reciprocal, aiming for an "even" trade balance.
14:00 - 16:00:
Question regarding Japan's view on U.S. tariffs. Ishiba, through translation, expresses hope to avoid such measures by increasing Japanese investment in the U.S.
16:00 - 18:00:
Trump talks about his vision for a "golden age" in Japan-U.S. relations, touching on defense and economic cooperation.
18:00 - 20:00:
A question on how the U.S. Steel deal might affect jobs. Trump suggests it would create jobs due to the investment focus.
20:00 - 22:00:
Ishiba responds to a question about Japan's demographic challenges and low birth rates, mentioning policy efforts to address this.
22:00 - 24:00:
Trump responds to a query about his relationship with Ishiba, stating he feels they have a good rapport.
24:00 - 26:00:
Closing remarks from both leaders, emphasizing their commitment to strengthen bilateral ties.

Questions Asked:

* What specifics can you give us about these new tariffs you mentioned? - Around 12:00.
* Can we get Japan's view on the potential U.S. tariffs? - Around 14:00.
* How will the restructuring of the Nippon Steel deal impact jobs in the U.S.? - Around 18:00.
* What is Japan doing about its demographic issues, particularly the low birth rate? - Around 20:00.
* How would you describe your personal relationship with Prime Minister Ishiba? - Around 22:00.

#MAGA