Ishiba calls Trump to talk tariffs touts deeper understanding

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba initiated a phone call with US President Donald Trump to discuss tariffs and said the two deepened their understanding.

The 25-minute phone call took place less than a week after the previous one between the two, suggesting closer communication as they eye a trade agreement in time for their expected meeting in mid-June when Group of Seven leaders gather for a summit in Canada.

Mr Ishiba said he could visit the US before the summit if needed.

The call adds to signs that momentum is building towards a deal.

Mr Trump’s about-face to support Nippon Steel’s bid to buy US Steel is seen as a tailwind for Tokyo as it seeks reprieves from the punishing tariffs that raise the risk of a technical recession for the Asian nation.

“We have consistently said investment is more important than tariffs and by investing in the US, we can create jobs there,” Mr Ishiba told reporters in Tokyo on the evening of May 29.

“Japan and the US will collaborate to create better products and build a win-win relationship. There has been no change whatsoever in Japan’s position.”

The two sides also exchanged views to enhance cooperation on diplomacy, security and economy, Mr Ishiba said after the call.

As was the case last week, the leaders talked just as Japan’s chief trade negotiator Ryosei Akazawa left for Washington for the latest round of negotiations with his US counterparts.

Mr Akazawa said he is eager to meet US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent this time, after he was absent from last week’s meeting.

Japanese local media report that Mr Akazawa may also try to secure more time with US officials at an international conference in France next week.

The meeting also signals that the trade talks continue to proceed despite