Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi wished President Trump’s youngest son, Barron, a Happy Birthday on Thursday during a White House dinner – and quipped that she knows where the first son gets his good looks from.
“I would like to start off by extending my sincere congratulations on two important anniversaries,” Takaichi said in her opening remarks, with the president standing by her side.
“Donald, tomorrow is the birthday of your son, Mr. Barron Trump, and I know he has grown up so much into a very tall, good looking gentleman,” the prime minister continued.
“As I see you Donald, it is very clear where he got it,” Takaichi quipped. “Of course, from his parents. There is no doubt about it.”
“So Donald, if I may ask you, please convey my sincere Happy Birthday wishes to him.”
The remark drew laughter from the dinner guests and the president.
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.
