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Japan's freshly appointed prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her primary foreign policy examination as she sits down with ex-President Trump for crucial talks in Tokyo.

The agenda of their summit is likely to focus on economic and security issues, signaling a pivotal juncture for Japan's relationship with its powerful partner.

The Historic Leadership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who just became Japan's initial woman prime minister after securing the leadership of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, made her international debut at the latest Asean summit.

But, her upcoming talks with the former president is seen as the true test that will set the tone for future two-way relations.

Navigating Domestic and International Pressures

Takaichi deals with a possibly unstable government situation, having established a coalition that leaves her two seats away of a majority in the powerful lower house of parliament.

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

Shared Perspectives and Diverging Interests

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of Chinese military activities in the Asia-Pacific, yet each countries have experienced issues from Trump's "US-first" trade policies.

Lately, Trump facilitated a ceasefire deal between Thailand and Cambodian forces on the initial leg of his Asian visit.

Military Build-up and Spending Pledges

The leader has stated her determination to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, planning to raise defense spending to two percent of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This move matches a long-held demand from the former US leader and signifies the biggest military expansion for Japan since the WWII.

Security Cooperation and Tensions

The country has also moved to obtain "counterstrike" abilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and plans to deploy domestically developed longer-range systems.

But, the two-way defense treaty is still a source of tension, with Trump earlier suggesting that Japan should pay more for stationing American troops on its soil.

Trade Expectations and Talks

Few expect major concessions on trade matters this week, particularly after latest tariff adjustments provided a degree of relief to Japan's economy.

The PM is expected to seek further benefits by committing to increased purchases of US goods, including vehicles, soybeans, and natural gas.

Personal Rapport and the Abe Link

The importance the former president places on individual chemistry could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her close relationship with the late ex-leader Abe, who was one of his favorite world leaders.

He was the initial foreign leader to meet the then president-elect after his victory, and the two built a strong relationship over mutual activities such as golf.

Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Significance

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

It will be succeeded by discussions with the PM at the state guest house, the same venue where he met with Abe in 2019.

Subsequently, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec summit, where he is scheduled to meet Chinese leader Xi.