Source of Information Becomes Apparent

During a dinner at the White House on Thursday, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi extended a birthday greeting to Barron Trump, the youngest son of President Trump, and humorously commented on the source of his handsome looks.

“I would like to begin by expressing my heartfelt congratulations on two significant occasions,” Takaichi remarked in her opening speech, with President Trump at her side.

“Donald, tomorrow marks the birthday of your son, Mr. Barron Trump. He has grown into a tall, handsome young man,” the prime minister noted.

She added with a smile, “Seeing you, Donald, it’s obvious where he gets those looks from—his parents, of course. There’s no doubt about it.”

“So, Donald, if I may, please pass along my warmest Happy Birthday wishes to him,” Takaichi concluded.

The light-hearted comment was met with laughter from both the dinner guests and President Trump.

Barron, who was not on the guest list for the dinner, turns 20 on Friday. 

Takaichi, who is often referred to as Japan’s “Iron Lady” for her staunch conservative views, also congratulated the US on its 250th anniversary.   

“The United States has long been an icon of freedom and democracy in the world … on behalf of the government and the people of Japan, I would like to extend my deepest congratulations to you and the American people,” she said. 

The prime minister – a car enthusiast – also remarked on the upcoming Freedom 250 Grand Prix, which will see race cars zooming through the streets of Washington, DC, this summer as part of America’s 250th birthday celebration.

“This race will bring roaring Chevrolets and Honda engines to the National Mall,” Takaichi said, seeming excited about the event.  

The IndyCar Series, which will host the race and is sponsored by Japan’s NTT group, is a “perfect, perfect example of the friendship between Japan and the United States,” the prime minister said. 

“So I do hope that you have a huge success at this racing event.” 

Takaichi reiterated that Japan is gifting the US 250 cherry trees for the semiquincentennial and she lamented that she could not bring a bouquet of cherry blossoms on her trip to DC. 

“My original plan was to bring so many cherry flowers and directly hand it to you, Donald, but unfortunately, because of the very strict quarantine measures that I couldn’t make this happen,” she said as she mimed carrying the flowers.