Takaichi’s White House cheer draws mockery on Chinese social media
Mar 22nd 2026 · Japan
A White House photograph of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi animatedly cheering at a reception with President Trump has prompted ridicule on Chinese social media and criticism in Japan over perceived servility.
- A White House photo shows Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi pumping her fists and smiling during a welcome reception with US President Donald Trump.
- The image, the first from their summit in the official White House gallery, spread widely on Chinese social platforms and prompted ridicule.
- Chinese commenters framed her as Washington’s biggest cheerleader and mocked the display of exuberance.
- Some critics in Japan called her demeanour servile and said it clashed with the dignity expected of a head of state during her first Washington visit since taking office in October.