Trump sign rare earths and missiles deals

Trump sign rare earths and missiles deals

US President Donald Trump and Japan’s new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi praised one another profusely on Tuesday, trumpeting a “new golden age” in relations between their respective nations before signing a number of key agreements.

Trump assured Takaichi that Washington would remain an ally of “the strongest level” after the two signed a deal for the purchase of tactical missiles for Japan’s US-made F-35 fighter jets. 

A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was also reportedly signed by both sides for the construction of new ships. Though China currently out produces the US in the sector, Trump has promised a turnaround.

Just as importantly, the two inked a deal designed specifically for “achieving resilience and security of critical minerals and rare earths supply chains” in response to a recent announcement by China that it will restrict the export of such key natural resources.