During her first meeting with US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Oct 28), Japan’s new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi presented several golf-themed gifts, including a putter once used by former leader Shinzo Abe, who had developed a close personal bond with Trump. The putter, displayed with a gold-leaf golf ball and a signed bag from Hideki Matsuyama, highlighted the close ties between Abe and Trump during Trump’s first term.

Takaichi, a long-time ally of Abe who was assassinated in 2022, appears keen to revive that relationship to strengthen her own minority government and manage sensitive issues such as defense spending, political analysts say. Masahiko Shibayama, a former aide to Abe, noted that the personal connection symbolizes trust between the leaders and could reinforce the US-Japan alliance. Coincidentally, the trial for Abe’s accused killer began the same day in Nara, Takaichi’s home city.

As Trump arrived at Tokyo’s Akasaka Palace, he immediately brought up Abe, describing him as a great friend to both himself and Takaichi. Takaichi, who served in Abe’s cabinets during both of his terms, expressed gratitude for Trump’s past support and hospitality to Abe’s widow, Akie. Her remarks were translated by Sunao Takao, the same interpreter who worked with Abe. Mark Davidson, a former US diplomat, said invoking Abe’s memory was a smart diplomatic move, as Trump places strong value on personal relationships. He noted that Takaichi’s closeness to Abe sets a positive foundation for future cooperation.

Both leaders also signed hats reading “JAPAN IS BACK,” a slogan introduced by Abe and reused by Takaichi during her leadership campaign. Although Takaichi is not as passionate about golf as Abe was, she mentioned watching part of a Major League Baseball game with Trump before formal discussions began. Strengthening ties with the US leader could help Takaichi secure her political footing and better handle Trump’s unpredictable leadership style, analysts suggest. Despite a recent rise in approval ratings, her coalition is still two seats short of a majority in Japan’s lower house of parliament. Davidson added that now is the ideal moment for her to use her current popularity to make necessary compromises and solidify Japan’s relationship with Trump.