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Japan's recently chosen leader, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to face her first major diplomatic examination as she sits down with ex-President Donald Trump for important negotiations in Tokyo.

The agenda of their encounter is likely to center on economic and defense matters, marking a pivotal juncture for Japan's ties with its powerful ally.

A Historic Premiership and Global Introduction

Takaichi, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after winning the top position of the governing LDP, made her global introduction at the latest Asean summit.

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

Navigating Domestic and Global Challenges

Takaichi faces a potentially shaky government landscape, having established a coalition that puts her a couple of votes away of a majority in the influential lower house of parliament.

This means, her government will depend on other lawmakers to approve legislation, introducing a layer of difficulty to her governance.

Shared Views and Diverging Interests

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of China's defense presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet both countries have faced issues from Trump's "US-first" trade policies.

Recently, Trump facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodia authorities during the first leg of his Asian visit.

Defense Build-up and Budget Commitments

The leader has stated her commitment to accelerate Japan's defense expansion, aiming to raise defense expenditure to 2% of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This step matches a long-held request from the former US leader and represents the largest military expansion for Japan since the WWII.

Security Partnership and Strains

Japan has also moved to obtain "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and intends to deploy domestically developed longer-range missiles.

However, the bilateral defense treaty is still a source of tension, with Trump earlier stating that the nation should pay more for stationing American troops on its territory.

Economic Outlook and Negotiations

Few anticipate major concessions on trade matters this week, especially after recent tariff changes provided some ease to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is likely to seek additional benefits by promising increased acquisitions of American products, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Link

The value the former president attributes to individual rapport could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her close relationship with assassinated former prime minister Abe, who was among Trump's favorite international figures.

He was the first foreign leader to visit the then president-elect after his election, and the pair developed a close relationship over mutual activities such as the sport.

Upcoming Schedule and Regional Significance

The former president's visit to the country 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 state guest house, the same venue where Trump held talks with Abe in 2019.

Subsequently, Trump will travel to South Korea for the Apec summit, where he is scheduled to engage with China's president Xi.