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The nation's recently chosen leader, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her first major foreign policy examination as she sits down with former US President Donald Trump for important negotiations in the Japanese capital.

Attention of their summit is anticipated to center on trade and security issues, signaling a pivotal moment for Japan's relationship with its influential ally.

A Historic Leadership and Global Introduction

The new PM, who just assumed the role of Japan's initial woman leader after securing the leadership of the ruling LDP, made her international debut at the latest ASEAN summit.

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

Navigating Domestic and Global Pressures

The prime minister confronts a possibly shaky government situation, having formed a partnership that leaves her two seats away of a controlling number in the influential lower house of the Diet.

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

Shared Views and Differing Policies

She holds Trump's suspicion of China's defense activities in the region, yet each nations have faced issues from his "US-first" economic policies.

Recently, the former president oversaw a truce agreement between Thai and Cambodia authorities during the initial leg of his Asian visit.

Military Expansion and Spending Commitments

Takaichi has expressed her commitment to speed up Japan's military expansion, planning to raise defense spending to 2% of GDP by the end of March.

This step aligns with a long-held demand from Trump and signifies the largest defense buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Security Cooperation and Tensions

Japan has also moved to obtain "retaliatory" abilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the US, and plans to use locally made extended-range missiles.

However, the bilateral security treaty remains a source of strain, with Trump previously stating that the nation should pay more for stationing US troops on its soil.

Trade Expectations and Talks

Not many anticipate significant agreements on economic issues during the visit, especially after recent tariff changes offered a degree of relief to the country's economy.

The PM is likely to seek additional relief by promising increased purchases of US goods, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link

The importance the former president places on personal chemistry could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her close ties with the late ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was among his favorite international figures.

He was the first foreign figure to meet Trump after his victory, and the pair developed a strong bond over mutual activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Significance

Trump's visit to the country will start with a meeting with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

It will be followed by discussions with Takaichi at the state guest house, the very venue where he met with the former leader in 2019.

Afterward, the former president will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is scheduled to engage with China's leader Xi.