The Unique Bond Between Donald Trump and Shinzo Abe
During the initial term of Donald J. Trump, few world leaders could claim to have a direct line to the then-president like Shinzo Abe, the former Prime Minister of Japan. Tragically, Mr. Abe was assassinated in 2022, leaving behind a legacy as a key figure in U.S.-Japan relations during a tumultuous time. He was often regarded as a master at navigating the unpredictable temperament of President Trump, effectively using their shared interests in golf, fast food, and mutual admiration to foster a productive relationship.
Mr. Abe was notably the first foreign leader to visit President Trump following his election in 2016. During this visit, he brought a thoughtful gift of golf clubs to Trump Tower in Manhattan, a gesture that set a friendly tone for their future interactions. Shortly after Trump’s inauguration, Abe quickly took on the role of a seasoned guide, helping the new president navigate the complexities of international politics. He became a trusted confidant, providing a reliable and supportive ear during numerous phone conversations.
When Mr. Abe made his first visit to the new president at Mar-a-Lago, Trump’s luxurious resort residence, just weeks after he assumed office, the two leaders bonded over a game of golf and a dinner that included their wives. This informal setting allowed them to connect on a personal level, further solidifying their diplomatic rapport.
During President Trump’s state visit to Japan, Mr. Abe went above and beyond to showcase the significance of the event. He orchestrated an impressive display of hospitality, including naming a trophy in Trump’s honor to be awarded at a prestigious sumo wrestling tournament. In addition, Mr. Abe granted President Trump the unique privilege of being the first international leader to meet Japan’s newly enthroned Emperor, an honor that underscored the importance of U.S.-Japan relations.
According to Tobias Harris, founder and principal of Japan Foresight, a risk consultancy based in Washington, Mr. Abe’s success in engaging with President Trump stemmed from his ability to “move quickly enough, get the tone right, and know how to communicate effectively” with him. Harris remarked, “It’s hard to think of a leader who did quite as well.”
As Japan, along with the rest of the globe, prepares for a potential return of the Trump administration, officials are feverishly revisiting their strategies from those initial four years. The challenge remains: how to effectively manage the whims of one of the most unpredictable American presidents in recent history.
