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The nation's newly elected prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is ready to face her first major foreign policy examination as she sits down with ex-President Trump for important talks in Tokyo.

The focus of their summit is likely to center on economic and defense matters, representing a key juncture for Japan's relationship with its powerful ally.

The Significant Premiership and Global Debut

The new PM, who just assumed the role of Japan's initial woman prime minister after securing the top position of the governing LDP, had her international debut at the latest Asean summit.

However, her upcoming talks with Trump is seen as the true test that will set the tone for future two-way cooperation.

Handling Domestic and Global Challenges

Takaichi deals with a potentially shaky government landscape, having formed a partnership that leaves her two seats away of a controlling number in the powerful chamber of the Diet.

Consequently, her government will depend on other MPs to pass laws, adding a element of difficulty to her leadership.

Shared Perspectives and Diverging Interests

Takaichi holds Trump's wariness of China's defense presence in the region, yet each countries have experienced issues from his "America-first" trade approach.

Lately, the former president oversaw a ceasefire deal between Thai and Cambodia forces during the initial leg of his Asian visit.

Military Expansion and Spending Pledges

Takaichi has expressed her commitment to accelerate Japan's military build-up, aiming to raise military expenditure to 2% of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This move matches a long-held request from Trump and signifies the largest defense expansion for the nation since the Second World War.

Security Partnership and Strains

The country has also taken steps to obtain "retaliatory" abilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the United States, and intends to use locally made extended-range systems.

However, the two-way security agreement remains a source of strain, with Trump earlier stating that Japan should pay more for hosting American troops on its soil.

Trade Expectations and Negotiations

Not many expect major agreements on trade issues during the visit, particularly after latest duty adjustments offered a degree of ease to Japan's export sector.

Takaichi is likely to pursue further relief by committing to greater acquisitions of American goods, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Abe Connection

The importance Trump places on personal chemistry could work in the PM's favor, given her strong relationship with assassinated former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite world leaders.

Abe was the first foreign leader to meet the then president-elect after his victory, and the pair built a strong bond over mutual activities such as golf.

Forthcoming Schedule and International Significance

Trump's trip to the country will begin with a meeting with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

It will be followed by discussions with the PM at the official residence, the very venue where Trump held talks with Abe in 2019.

Afterward, Trump will travel to the Republic of Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is scheduled to meet Chinese leader Xi.