Trump sees ‘great progress’ in trade negotiations with Japan

President Trump said on Sunday that “great progress” is being made in trade negotiations with Japan.

The president focused on agriculture and beef in a tweet sent during his trip to Japan, adding, however, that “much will wait until after” the nation’s elections in July.

Great progress being made in our Trade Negotiations with Japan. Agriculture and beef heavily in play. Much will wait until after their July elections where I anticipate big numbers!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 26, 2019

“Numerous Japanese officials told me that the Democrats would rather see the United States fail than see me or the Republican Party succeed – Death Wish!” he added in another post.

Great fun and meeting with Prime Minister @AbeShinzo. Numerous Japanese officials told me that the Democrats would rather see the United States fail than see me or the Republican Party succeed – Death Wish!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 26, 2019

{mosads}Speaking to a reception of Japanese business leaders Saturday evening, Trump said the relationship between the U.S. and Japan “has never been stronger” and called it an “exciting time” for commerce between the two countries.

“You’re doing fantastically well. I was looking very closely on the ride over at some of the numbers being produced in Japan, and you’re doing great,” he said, according to a White House transcript of the president’s remarks.

“I would say that Japan has had a substantial edge for many, many years, but that’s OK. Maybe that’s why you like us so much. But we’ll get it a little bit more fair, I think. I think we’ll do that,” he added, noting that Japan is ordering a “great deal” of U.S. military equipment. Trump also mentioned last week’s reopening of Japanese markets to U.S. beef markets.

“We welcome your support in these efforts, and we hope to have several further announcements soon and some very big ones over the next few months,” he said.

Trump’s visit to Japan also included a number of ceremonial events, including a round of golf Sunday morning with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

Great morning of golf with Prime Minister @AbeShinzo at Mobara Country Club in Chiba, Japan! pic.twitter.com/EZeJ8znS51

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 26, 2019

Trump on Sunday also attended a sumo tournament, where he awarded a “United States President’s Cup” trophy to the champion.