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Japan's newly elected prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is set to face her primary foreign policy examination as she engages with ex-President Donald Trump for high-stakes discussions in Tokyo.

The agenda of their meeting is expected to revolve around economic and defense matters, representing a pivotal moment for Tokyo's ties with its powerful ally.

A Historic Leadership and Global Debut

Takaichi, who just assumed the role of Japan's initial woman prime minister after securing the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had her international debut at the recent ASEAN summit.

However, her forthcoming talks with Trump is considered the real test that will establish the direction for coming bilateral cooperation.

Managing Domestic and International Challenges

The prime minister faces a possibly unstable government situation, having formed a coalition that leaves her two seats away of a controlling number in the powerful lower house of the Diet.

This means, her administration will rely on opposition lawmakers to approve laws, adding a element of difficulty to her governance.

Shared Views and Differing Policies

Takaichi holds the former president's suspicion of Chinese military activities in the Asia-Pacific, yet each countries have experienced challenges from Trump's "America-first" economic approach.

Recently, Trump facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodia authorities during the first stage of his Asia tour.

Defense Build-up and Budget Commitments

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

This move aligns with a longstanding request from the former US leader and signifies the largest military buildup for the nation since the WWII.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

Japan has also taken steps to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including cruise missiles from the United States, and intends to use locally made extended-range systems.

But, the two-way security agreement remains a point of strain, with Trump earlier stating that the nation should contribute more for stationing US troops on its soil.

Economic Outlook and Talks

Few expect significant concessions on trade issues during the visit, especially after recent duty changes offered a degree of ease to Japan's economy.

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

Personal Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link

The value the former president attributes to individual rapport could work in the PM's advantage, given her close relationship with the late ex-leader Abe, who was among his preferred world leaders.

Abe was the first foreign figure to meet Trump after his election, and the two built a close bond over mutual interests such as golf.

Forthcoming Agenda and Regional Significance

Trump's trip to Japan will start with a meeting with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

This will be followed by talks with Takaichi at the official residence, the same location where he met with the former leader in 2019.

Subsequently, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is scheduled to meet China's leader Xi.