TOKYO , Oct 28 (TOKYO/APP): Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confirmed with U.S. President Donald Trump during their first meeting on Tuesday that Japan will donate 250 cherry trees to Washington next year to mark the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.
Takaichi, who took office last week, added that fireworks made in Akita Prefecture in northeastern Japan are scheduled to be launched in the U.S. capital on the July 4 anniversary, expressing her wish to “celebrate the occasion together in grand fashion.”
When former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida paid a state visit to the United States in 2024 during the presidency of Joe Biden, he announced Japan’s plan to present the cherry trees to Washington, continuing a tradition of friendship between the two countries.
Washington’s Tidal Basin features around 3,000 trees planted in 1912 from saplings donated by the city of Tokyo. Since then, the U.S. capital has become famous for its iconic springtime blossoms, enjoyed by more than a million visitors each year.
Takaichi and Trump held summit talks at Tokyo’s State Guest House.