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The nation's freshly appointed leader, Takaichi, is preparing to confront her initial significant foreign policy examination as she sits down with ex-President Trump for important discussions in Tokyo.

The agenda of their encounter is expected to center on trade and defense issues, representing a key juncture for Japan's ties with its powerful partner.

A Notable Leadership and International Debut

Takaichi, who recently assumed the role of Japan's initial woman leader after securing the leadership of the ruling LDP, had her international debut at the latest ASEAN meeting.

However, her forthcoming talks with the former president is seen as the true challenge that will set the tone for coming bilateral relations.

Managing Domestic and International Challenges

The prime minister deals with a possibly unstable political landscape, having established a coalition that leaves her a couple of votes away of a majority in the influential chamber of parliament.

Consequently, her government will rely on other lawmakers to pass legislation, introducing a layer of complexity to her governance.

Common Perspectives and Differing Policies

Takaichi holds the former president's suspicion of China's defense activities in the Asia-Pacific, yet each nations have experienced issues from Trump's "US-first" economic policies.

Lately, Trump facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodian authorities during the first leg of his Asian visit.

Military Expansion and Spending Pledges

Takaichi has stated her commitment to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, planning to raise defense expenditure to 2% of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This move aligns with a longstanding demand from Trump and represents the biggest defense buildup for Japan since the Second World War.

Defense Cooperation and Tensions

The country has also taken steps to acquire "retaliatory" abilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and plans to deploy domestically developed longer-range systems.

But, the bilateral defense treaty remains a point of tension, with Trump previously stating that Japan should pay more for stationing US troops on its territory.

Trade Outlook and Talks

Not many expect significant agreements on economic matters during the visit, especially after recent tariff changes provided some ease to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is expected to seek further relief by committing to greater purchases of American products, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and gas.

Individual Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link

The importance the former president attributes to personal chemistry could benefit the PM's advantage, given her strong relationship with assassinated former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was among his favorite international figures.

He was the initial foreign leader to meet Trump after his victory, and the pair built a strong relationship over shared activities such as the sport.

Upcoming Schedule and Regional Significance

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

This will be followed by discussions with the PM at the state guest house, the same location where Trump held talks with Abe in 2019.

Afterward, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is set to meet China's leader Xi.