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The nation's freshly appointed leader, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her initial significant diplomatic test as she sits down with former US President Trump for crucial talks in Tokyo.

The agenda of their summit is expected to center on economic and defense issues, signaling a key juncture for Tokyo's ties with its influential ally.

A Historic Premiership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who just assumed the role of Japan's first female prime minister after securing the top position of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, made her global introduction at the latest Asean meeting.

But, her forthcoming talks with Trump is considered the real test that will set the tone for coming two-way cooperation.

Handling Internal and International Pressures

The prime minister deals with a potentially unstable political landscape, having formed a partnership that puts her a couple of votes short of a majority in the powerful lower house of the Diet.

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

Shared Perspectives and Differing Interests

Takaichi holds Trump's suspicion of Chinese defense activities in the region, but each nations have faced issues from his "US-first" trade approach.

Lately, the former president oversaw a truce agreement between Thailand and Cambodian forces on the initial stage of his Asian tour.

Defense Expansion and Spending Commitments

The leader has expressed her commitment to accelerate Japan's military expansion, planning to raise military expenditure to 2% of GDP by the end of March.

This step aligns with a long-held request from the former US leader and signifies the biggest defense expansion for the nation since the Second World War.

Defense Cooperation and Tensions

Japan has also taken steps to obtain "retaliatory" capabilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the US, and intends to deploy locally made extended-range missiles.

However, the two-way security treaty is still a source of tension, with the former president previously suggesting that Japan should contribute more for hosting US forces on its soil.

Trade Expectations and Negotiations

Not many anticipate major agreements on economic matters during the visit, especially after latest duty adjustments offered some relief to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is likely to pursue further benefits by committing to increased acquisitions of American products, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and natural gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Link

The value Trump places on personal rapport could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her strong ties with assassinated former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite world leaders.

Abe was the initial international figure to visit Trump after his victory, and the pair built a close relationship over shared activities such as the sport.

Upcoming Schedule and Regional Significance

Trump's trip to Japan will begin with a meeting with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

This will be succeeded by discussions with the PM at the official residence, the very location where he met with Abe in 2019.

Afterward, the former president will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec summit, where he is set to meet Chinese president Xi.