The new U.S. Ambassador to Japan, George Glass, arrived in Tokyo on Friday, expressing optimism about reaching a deal in ongoing tariff negotiations between the two countries. Glass, a prominent businessperson with a background in finance, investment banking, and technology, arrives as Washington and Tokyo navigate President Donald Trump's tariff measures, which have raised concerns worldwide regarding their impact on the economy and global trade.

"I'm extremely optimistic ... that a deal will be get done," Glass told reporters after landing at Tokyo's Haneda international airport. His arrival follows the first round of tariff talks in Washington, where both sides agreed to expedite the agreement process and schedule a second round of meetings later in the month. Trump, along with advisors Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, met with the Japanese delegation, led by Economic Revitalization Minister Ryosei Akazawa, at the White House.

With his reputation as a dealmaker on the line, Trump is likely seeking to finalize several trade deals as countries globally attempt to mitigate the damages from U.S. tariffs. A recent 90-day pause temporarily exempted Japan from 24% across-the-board tariffs, but a 10% baseline tariff and a 25% tax on imported cars, auto parts, steel, and aluminum exports remain. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has warned that the tariffs would harm Japan's economy and discourage Japanese companies from investing in the U.S., advocating for a mutually beneficial settlement.

Trump is also urging Tokyo to increase its defense spending and assume more of the burden for hosting approximately 50,000 American troops, as the allies look to strengthen military cooperation. This issue was raised during tariff talks with Japan. "We sit with Japan in a very tough neighborhood. You have Russia, you have China, and you have North Korea," Glass stated, emphasizing the need for adequate military resources to counter countries like China.

During his nomination testimony at the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in March, Glass pledged to engage in "tough conversations" on tariffs and reducing the U.S. trade deficit with Japan, while ensuring Tokyo continues to increase its defense role in the region. Japan, a long-standing U.S. ally, is among the first countries negotiating tariffs with Washington, with other American allies closely monitoring the talks.

Glass expressed confidence in reaching a deal, citing the involvement of "the best and the brightest" officials from both countries and Trump's personal attention to the talks as a top priority. He also highlighted America’s $40 trillion national debt, calling it "unsustainable" and a threat to the country's economy. Glass, who is set to begin work on Monday, did not specify how he would help resolve the differences between Tokyo and Washington, mentioning that he would like to rest after his long flight.