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Japan's newly elected prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is set to face her primary diplomatic examination as she meets former US President Trump for important talks in Tokyo.

The focus of their encounter is likely to center on trade and security matters, representing a key moment for Japan's ties with its influential ally.

A Historic Premiership and Global Debut

The new PM, who just became Japan's first female leader after securing the top position of the governing LDP, made her global introduction at the latest Asean meeting.

However, her upcoming meeting with Trump is considered the real challenge that will set the tone for future bilateral relations.

Handling Internal and International Pressures

Takaichi deals with a potentially unstable political situation, having established a partnership that puts her a couple of votes short of a majority in the powerful lower house of the Diet.

This means, her government will rely on other lawmakers to pass laws, introducing a element of difficulty to her governance.

Shared Perspectives and Differing Policies

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of China's defense activities in the region, yet both nations have faced challenges from Trump's "US-first" economic approach.

Recently, Trump oversaw a truce agreement between Thai and Cambodian authorities on the first stage of his Asian tour.

Defense Build-up and Budget Commitments

The leader has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's defense expansion, aiming to increase military expenditure to two percent of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This move aligns with a long-held demand from Trump and represents the largest defense expansion for the nation since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Strains

Japan has also moved to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the United States, and intends to use locally made extended-range systems.

However, the two-way defense treaty remains a point of tension, with Trump previously suggesting that Japan should pay more for hosting American forces on its territory.

Trade Expectations and Talks

Not many anticipate significant concessions on economic issues this week, particularly after latest tariff changes offered some relief to Japan's export sector.

Takaichi is expected to pursue further benefits by committing to increased purchases of US goods, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The value the former president attributes to personal rapport could work in the PM's favor, given her strong ties with the late former prime minister Abe, who was among his preferred world leaders.

Abe was the initial international leader to meet Trump after his election, and the pair built a close bond over mutual activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Significance

The former president's visit to the country will start with a audience with the Emperor at the royal residence in the capital.

It will be succeeded by talks with the PM at the official residence, the same venue where Trump held talks with the former leader in 2019.

Subsequently, Trump will travel to the Republic of Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is scheduled to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping.