Foreign Pool Report #13 More Dinner Scene

This is a post-lid report as lid was declared at 7:44pm.

There were no questions taken by the two leaders, but the remarks were made in a very friendly environment. Takaichi chose a sparkly dark grey suit with double stranded pearls for dinner and was carrying a white handbag, again channeling her inner Thatcher.

As a side note, since Palantir's Alex Karp was in attendance, Takaichi had met with Palantir's Peter Thiel earlier this month in Tokyo.

Takaichi's remarks are as follows:

Takaichi (Through Translator)

The honorable president, Donald J Trump. Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, I would like to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude for hosting such a beautiful dinner for me and my delegation.

Donald, thank you very much for your warm feelings toward Japan and your friendship, if that's no anniversary. So tonight, I would like to start off by extending my sincere congratulations on two important anniversaries. The first one is a birthday celebration. Donald, tomorrow is the birthday of your son, Mr. Barron Trump, and I know he has grown up so much into a very tall, good looking (she used the word ikemen) gentleman.

Donald, it is very clear where he got it, of course, from his parents. There's no doubt about it. So Donald, if I may ask you, please convey my sincere Happy Birthday wishes to him.

The second one is the America's 250th anniversary of the United States. As you rightly mentioned, the United States has long been an icon of freedom and democracy in the world, and this year, the United States is marking a historic milestone. And on behalf of the government and the people of Japan, I would like to extend my deepest congratulations to you and the American people.

And I understand that in August this year, at Donald's suggestion, Indy car race freedom 250 grand prix will be held here in Washington, DC. This race will bring roaring Chevrolets and Honda engines to the National Mall.

In addition, Japan's NTT group has been a title sponsor of the Indy Car Series. As you see, Indy Car Race is a perfect, perfect example of the friendship between Japan and the United States.

So I do hope that you have a huge success at this racing event.

(*Takaichi is a huge car enthusiast and she very passionately delivered the remarks about the Indy Car race)

Speaking of our friendship here in Washington, DC, Japanese Sakura or cherry trees have long been letting us know the arrival of spring, and also it has been a symbol of the history of Japan- US friendship.

And this is also something that Donald already mentioned, but I would like to reiterate, this year Japan extends a gift of additional 250 cherry trees to Washington, DC to celebrate America 250.

Actually, my original plan was to bring so many cherry flowers and directly hand it to you, Donald, but unfortunately, because of the very strict quarantine measures that I couldn't make this happen.

(*She mimes carrying a bouquet of cherry blossoms as she is speaking, saying, I really wanted to come and say "Donald, nice to see you again (in English)" with arm full of flowers, but...")

A stronger Japan and a stronger America, a more prosperous Japan and a more prosperous America, I am very confident that Donald and I are the best buddies to realize this shared goal.

Late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who was Donald's dear friend and also my dear friend too, eloquently said one phrase here in Washington, DC, upon his visit. And as I stand here today, I would like to repeat what he said With greater pride and confidence:

Takaichi: Japan is back! (in English)

Japan, once again, will lead the innovation in the world and the new Japan stands ready to play an even greater role for world’s peace.

Japan will continue to walk on such path, together with Donald and together with the American people.

Let us together create a new chapter in the history of Japan. US Alliance, a chapter filled with hope and strength. Thank you very much.

Your pooler is signing off for the day. Thank you for coming along on this journey. It was a pleasure to be your foreign pooler.

As we say in Japanese, otsukaresamadeshita or "thank you for your hard work."

Best,

Mineko

--

Mineko Tokito Abe

Senior Washington Reporter

The Yomiuri Shimbun

General Bureau of the Americas

Suite 802 National Press Building

529 14th st. NW Washington DC 20045

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