To use this site, please disable the ad blocking feature and reload the page.
This website uses cookies to collect information about your visit for purposes such as showing you personalized ads and content, and analyzing our website traffic. By clicking “Accept all,” you will allow the use of these cookies.
Users accessing this site from EEA countries and UK are unable to view this site without your consent. We apologize for any inconvenience caused.
Associated Press file photo President Donald Trump arrives at the White House on Marine One on Sunday in Washington.
The Yomiuri Shimbun
16:11 JST, April 8, 2025
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said he conveyed his “deep concern” to U.S. President Donald Trump over his reciprocal tariff policy and urged him to reconsider during a phone conversation on Monday night. The two agreed to delegate relevant ministers to continue discussions, Ishiba told reporters at the prime minister’s official residence.
The phone conversation lasted for about 25 minutes, and the prime minister told Trump that he was “deeply concerned” the U.S. tariff policy could “weaken investment capacity among Japanese companies.” He added that the two countries “should pursue ways to promote broader cooperation that benefits both Japan and the United States in a mutual manner, including the enhancement of investment, rather than unilaterally imposing tariffs.”
Trump reportedly responded by telling Ishiba his views of where the United States has been placed in the international economy, including by making mention of huge trade deficits.
Ishiba told reporters that he was “of course considering visiting the United States at the most appropriate time and talk with Trump in person,” while keeping an eye on the progress of the ministerial discussions.
