Trump congratulates Japan’s first female prime minister: ‘Tremendous news’

President Trump welcomed the news Monday that Japan is poised to have its first female prime minister, calling it “incredible for the people of Japan.”

“Japan has just elected its first female Prime Minister, a highly respected person of great wisdom and strength. This is tremendous news for the incredible people of Japan. Congratulations to all!” Trump posted on Truth Social.

Sanae Takaichi, a conservative lawmaker, won a key leadership vote Saturday, which put her on track to become Japan’s prime minister. She will be the first woman to hold the role in the country’s history.

Takaichi is expected to officially be named prime minister later this month. She will succeed Shigeru Ishiba, who stepped down after roughly a year in the role.

Trump speaks frequently about his warm relationship with Japan, often invoking former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who led the country during Trump’s first term. The two nations brokered a trade deal in July that included a 15 percent tariff on Japanese goods.

Trump is set to visit Japan later this month as part of a trip to Asia for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit.