TOKYO (AP) — President Donald Trump opened a state visit to Japan on Saturday by needling the country over its trade imbalance with the United States. It’s part of Abe’s charm strategy that some analysts say has spared Japan from the full weight of Trump’s trade wrath. Abe and Trump planned to play golf Sunday before Abe gives Trump the chance to present his “President’s Cup” trophy to the winner of a sumo wrestling championship match. On Monday, Trump will become the first head of state to meet Emperor Naruhito since he ascended to the throne this month. He has suggested he will go ahead with the trade penalties if U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer fails to win concessions from Japan and the European Union.

Source: Huffington Post May 25, 2019 12:56 UTC