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Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Takaichi, is preparing to confront her primary diplomatic examination as she sits down with former US President Donald Trump for crucial negotiations in Tokyo.

Attention of their meeting is likely to focus on trade and defense issues, signaling a critical juncture for Japan's ties with its powerful partner.

A Historic Leadership and International Debut

The new PM, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after securing the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, made her global introduction at the latest Asean meeting.

However, her upcoming meeting with the former president is considered the real test that will establish the direction for coming two-way relations.

Navigating Domestic and International Challenges

The prime minister faces a potentially shaky political landscape, having established a coalition that puts her two seats away of a majority in the influential lower house of parliament.

Consequently, her government will depend on opposition lawmakers to approve laws, introducing a element of difficulty to her governance.

Shared Perspectives and Differing Interests

Takaichi holds the former president's suspicion of Chinese defense presence in the region, but each nations have experienced issues from Trump's "America-first" trade policies.

Recently, Trump facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodia forces on the initial leg of his Asian tour.

Defense Expansion and Spending Pledges

Takaichi has stated her determination to accelerate Japan's military expansion, planning to raise defense spending to two percent of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This step aligns with a longstanding request from the former US leader and signifies the largest military expansion for Japan since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

Japan has also taken steps to obtain "retaliatory" capabilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the United States, and plans to use locally made extended-range systems.

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

Economic Expectations and Negotiations

Few expect significant concessions on trade issues this week, especially after recent tariff changes provided a degree of ease to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is expected to pursue additional relief by promising increased purchases of US goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Link

The value the former president attributes to individual chemistry could benefit the PM's advantage, given her close ties with the late ex-leader Abe, who was among Trump's favorite international figures.

Abe was the initial foreign leader to meet the then president-elect after his victory, and the two developed a strong relationship over shared activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Schedule and International Implications

The former president's trip to the country will start with a audience with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

It will be followed by talks with the PM at the official residence, the very location where Trump met with Abe in previous years.

Subsequently, the former president will proceed to South Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is set to engage with China's president Xi Jinping.