Tokyo: Japan is set to join the growing list of countries nominating former U.S. President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, according to a statement from the White House. The announcement came as Trump began his official visit to Japan during his ongoing Asia tour.
Japan’s Support for Trump’s Nobel Bid
During his stop in Tokyo, Trump met with Japan’s new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at the Akasaka Palace. The two leaders discussed trade, regional security, and defense ties.
Prime Minister Takaichi expressed her intention to support Trump’s nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize, praising his diplomatic role in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
An official statement from Japan is still awaited. However, according to the White House, Takaichi appreciated Trump’s contribution to recent peace agreements.
“Mr. President succeeded in securing a ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia. The peace deal you achieved in the Middle East is historic and unprecedented,” she said.
Takaichi also highlighted the importance of stronger U.S.–Japan cooperation to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Strengthening U.S.–Japan Relations
Japan remains one of America’s closest allies in Asia. Trump’s visit underlined the deepening strategic partnership between the two nations.
During the visit, both leaders signed a critical minerals and rare earth agreement in Tokyo. The deal aims to reduce dependency on China for key materials and to enhance supply chain resilience. It also promotes joint innovation and technology sharing in areas vital to both economies.
“Our partnership with Japan shows how democracies can unite to secure peace and prosperity,” Trump stated after the signing.
Trump’s Pursuit of the Nobel Peace Prize
Trump often describes himself as a “President of Peace.” He claims his administration helped end or ease several conflicts worldwide.
He has credited his leadership for mediating peace between Thailand and Cambodia, easing tensions between India and Pakistan, and brokering ceasefires in Gaza.
Although Trump has not yet won the Nobel Peace Prize, several nations — including Israel, Pakistan, Cambodia, and Thailand — have already nominated him. Japan’s support could strengthen his position as a leading candidate.
Political experts believe Japan’s endorsement would be significant. As one of the world’s most respected democracies, its backing adds weight to Trump’s image as a global peace negotiator.
Trump’s Asia Tour: Key Highlights
Trump began his Asia tour in Malaysia, where he attended the ASEAN Summit and oversaw the signing of the Thailand–Cambodia peace agreement. The deal was widely seen as a major diplomatic breakthrough.
After Malaysia, Trump traveled to Japan for talks with Prime Minister Takaichi. His next destination is South Korea, where he will attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit.
In South Korea, Trump plans to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping for a bilateral discussion. The meeting is expected to focus on trade tensions and strategies for maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Observers say the Trump–Xi meeting could influence future trade relations between the two largest economies.
Growing International Support
Trump’s Nobel Peace Prize nomination has sparked both praise and criticism. Supporters view him as a disruptor who used direct diplomacy to reduce conflicts. Critics argue his approach was often divisive.
Still, many governments have formally recognized his mediation efforts, particularly in Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Japan’s upcoming endorsement could mark a turning point in his international recognition.
“Japan’s decision reflects respect for Trump’s peace initiatives and a renewed push to strengthen U.S.–Japan relations,” said a senior White House official.
What Lies Ahead
Trump’s Asia tour will continue to highlight his diplomatic outreach and peace initiatives. Analysts believe he is using this momentum to bolster his global image ahead of the next Nobel Committee review.
For now, the world awaits Japan’s official confirmation — a move that could further boost Trump’s standing among his international supporters.
Leslie Rajan 
Sekar Rao