Former Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso recently visited Donald Trump at Trump Tower in New York, aiming to foster closer relations between Japan's ruling party and the former U.S. president. Aso, currently serving as the vice president of the Liberal Democratic Party, is part of a group of foreign leaders meeting with Trump, who is considering a comeback to the White House after the upcoming election.
During the meeting, Trump praised Aso as a highly respected figure in Japan and beyond, emphasizing the importance of discussing matters concerning both Japan and the United States. The former president's meeting with Aso took place following his appearance at a trial related to hush-money issues during the 2016 presidential campaign in New York. Aso's visit to the U.S. and subsequent meeting with Trump is part of his efforts to maintain international connections, having previously met with U.S. Senator Bill Hagerty, who served as the U.S. ambassador to Japan under the Trump administration. In the past, Aso has held significant government positions in Japan, including deputy prime minister and finance minister in former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's administration, known for its close relationship with Trump.
Trump's meeting with Aso reflects his continued engagement with global political figures as he gears up for a potential election bid. By meeting with personalities like British Foreign Secretary David Cameron and Polish President Andrzej Duda, Trump is positioning himself on the international stage, possibly laying the groundwork for a future political endeavor.