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The nation's recently chosen leader, Sanae Takaichi, is set to face her first major diplomatic test as she sits down with former US President Donald Trump for high-stakes discussions in the Japanese capital.

The agenda of their encounter is expected to center on economic and security topics, marking a key juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its influential partner.

A Historic Leadership and Global Introduction

The new PM, who just became Japan's initial woman leader after securing the top position of the ruling LDP, made her international introduction at the latest Asean summit.

But, her upcoming talks with Trump is seen as the real test that will establish the direction for future bilateral cooperation.

Managing Domestic and Global Challenges

Takaichi deals with a potentially shaky political situation, having established a coalition that leaves her two seats short of a controlling number in the powerful lower house of the Diet.

Consequently, her administration will depend on opposition lawmakers to approve legislation, adding a element of difficulty to her governance.

Shared Views and Differing Interests

She shares Trump's suspicion of Chinese military activities in the region, yet both nations have experienced issues from his "US-first" trade approach.

Recently, Trump oversaw a ceasefire deal between Thailand and Cambodian forces on the initial stage of his Asian tour.

Defense Build-up and Spending Commitments

Takaichi has expressed her commitment to accelerate Japan's military build-up, planning to raise defense expenditure to 2% of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This move matches a long-held demand from the former US leader and represents the largest military buildup for the nation since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

The country has also moved to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the US, and plans to use domestically developed extended-range systems.

However, the bilateral security treaty remains a source of tension, with the former president earlier stating that Japan should contribute more for stationing US troops on its soil.

Economic Outlook and Negotiations

Not many anticipate significant concessions on trade matters this week, especially after recent tariff changes offered some relief to Japan's export sector.

The PM is expected to seek further benefits by promising greater acquisitions of US goods, including vehicles, soybeans, and gas.

Individual Rapport and the Abe Connection

The value the former president places on personal chemistry could benefit the PM's advantage, given her close ties with the late ex-leader Abe, who was one of his preferred international figures.

He was the first international figure to meet the then president-elect after his election, and the two built a strong relationship over shared activities such as the sport.

Upcoming Schedule and International Significance

The former president's visit to Japan will begin with a audience with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

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

Afterward, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the Apec summit, where he is scheduled to engage with China's leader Xi.