Categories: Social Media News

Trump’s biggest cheerleader? Why Japan’s Takaichi is making waves in China

A White House photo of Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi appearing to break into a dance at an official function ignited a wave of mockery across Chinese social media on the weekend, with commenters framing her as Washington’s biggest cheerleader.

The photograph, the first in an official White House gallery from her summit with US President Donald Trump on Thursday, captures Takaichi in a moment of unbridled exuberance during a welcome reception.

Making her first trip to Washington since taking office in October, the Japanese leader stands with both fists pumped high and mouth wide open, as a band plays behind her.

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Takaichi’s animated expression is a sharp contrast to the formal White House photos of Trump’s meetings in recent months with the president of Ukraine and prime minister of Israel.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and US President Donald Trump deliver remarks in the State Dining Room. Photo: Handout

In Japan, some commenters criticised Takaichi’s demeanour as servile, accusing her “sycophantic diplomacy” that was inconsistent with the dignified approach expected of a head of state.

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Social Media Asia Editor

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