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Japan's newly elected leader, Takaichi, is preparing to confront her first major diplomatic test as she sits down with ex-President Donald Trump for important talks in Tokyo.

The focus of their encounter is likely to revolve around trade and security matters, signaling a critical juncture for Tokyo's ties with its influential ally.

A Notable Premiership and International Introduction

The new PM, who recently became Japan's initial woman prime minister after winning the top position of the ruling LDP, had her international introduction at the latest Asean summit.

However, her forthcoming talks with the former president is regarded as the real test that will set the tone for coming bilateral cooperation.

Navigating Domestic and International Challenges

Takaichi confronts a potentially unstable government situation, having established a coalition that leaves her a couple of votes short of a controlling number in the powerful lower house of the Diet.

Consequently, her government will rely on opposition MPs to approve laws, introducing a layer of difficulty to her governance.

Common Perspectives and Differing Interests

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of Chinese defense presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet each nations have faced challenges from Trump's "US-first" trade approach.

Recently, the former president facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodia forces on the initial stage of his Asia tour.

Defense Build-up and Budget Pledges

The leader has stated her commitment to accelerate Japan's military build-up, planning to raise defense expenditure to 2% of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This step matches a longstanding request from the former US leader and represents the largest military buildup for Japan since the Second World War.

Security Partnership and Tensions

The country has also taken steps to obtain "retaliatory" capabilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the US, and plans to deploy domestically developed longer-range systems.

But, the bilateral defense agreement remains a point of tension, with Trump earlier suggesting that the nation should contribute more for stationing American forces on its territory.

Economic Expectations and Negotiations

Few expect major concessions on trade matters during the visit, particularly after latest tariff adjustments provided a degree of relief to Japan's export sector.

The PM is likely to pursue additional benefits by committing to increased acquisitions of US goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Individual Rapport and the Abe Link

The importance Trump places on personal chemistry could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her close relationship with assassinated former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was among his preferred international figures.

Abe was the first international leader to visit Trump after his election, and the pair developed a close bond over mutual activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Schedule and International Implications

Trump's visit to the country will begin with a meeting with the Emperor at the royal residence in the capital.

It will be succeeded by talks with Takaichi at the official residence, the very location where Trump held talks with the former leader in 2019.

Subsequently, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the APEC summit, where he is scheduled to meet China's leader Xi.