Decoding the first Trump-Abe summit

Synopsis

Andrew Johnson, the US News editor, discusses the significance of the summit between Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and US President Donald Trump at the White House. Dimitri Sopu, the Washington bureau chief, highlights that Abe's visit comes after Trump's controversial remarks during the presidential campaign, where he suggested pulling troops out of Japan and South Korea and encouraged Japan to consider developing nuclear weapons. Abe aims to persuade Trump to soften his protectionist stance and reaffirm the importance of the US-Japan alliance. This meeting marks Abe as the second world leader to meet Trump after his inauguration, following Theresa May. The summit features lavish entertainment, and Trump greets Abe warmly, even hugging him, which is a notable departure from his usual formalities. Their chemistry appears strong, and they plan to play golf together the following day, indicating a positive rapport.