Gyeongju, South Korea – November 1, 2025 – Japan’s newly appointed Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, confirmed on Saturday that her government has no intention of renegotiating the historic $550 billion investment package recently sealed with the United States. The statement was made during a press briefing at the close of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in South Korea.

“I believe that even if the prime minister changes, promises made between governments should not be altered,” Takaichi told reporters, firmly dismissing speculation of any adjustment to the high-stakes bilateral agreement.

The investment package, one of the most substantial economic collaborations between Tokyo and Washington, was finalized under former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and maintained during Takaichi’s leadership transition in October 2025. It includes strategic initiatives across sectors such as technology, security, infrastructure, and energy.

A New Era in Japan’s Politics and Diplomacy

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, known for her conservative views and now celebrated as Japan’s first female prime minister, has quickly established her stance on foreign policy. Her appearance at the APEC summit marks her debut on the international stage, where she met U.S. President Donald Trump, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung—the latter for the first time in her tenure.

In a pivotal meeting with China’s Xi Jinping, Takaichi emphasized the importance of “building a constructive and stable relationship” with Beijing—a sentiment echoed by Xi, who said Japan and China “should not be a threat to each other,” according to Chinese state media.

U.S.-Japan Relations Firm Despite Trade Tensions Regionally

Takaichi also declined to comment directly on a recent U.S.-South Korea trade deal, noting that the details had not yet been publicly shared. However, the Japanese leader’s commitment to upholding the multi-billion dollar investment accord with the U.S. underscores her broader diplomatic agenda: one focused on continuity, economic security, and national interest, despite regional shifts.

Before joining the APEC summit, Takaichi visited Tokyo, where she held her first bilateral meeting with President Trump. She described the discussion as “frank, direct,” highlighting the personal rapport established between the two leaders.

Looking Ahead: Geopolitics, Trade, and Japan’s Position

With geopolitical tensions simmering across East Asia and global markets reacting to leadership changes in major economies, Japan’s next moves will be closely monitored. The country’s decision to stay the course on the U.S. investment deal sends a signal of stability to investors and allies.

The Tokyo Stock Exchange followed suit, with positive sentiment leading to modest gains on Wall Street by market close on Friday.