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Japan's recently chosen leader, Takaichi, is preparing to confront her primary diplomatic examination as she sits down with ex-President Trump for crucial discussions in the Japanese capital.

The agenda of their meeting is expected to revolve around economic and security topics, marking a critical juncture for Japan's ties with its powerful partner.

The Historic Leadership and International Debut

The new PM, who just became Japan's initial woman prime minister after winning the leadership of the governing LDP, had her global introduction at the latest Asean summit.

However, her upcoming talks with the former president is considered the real test that will set the tone for future bilateral relations.

Handling Domestic and International Challenges

Takaichi faces a potentially shaky government situation, having established a partnership that leaves her two seats away of a majority in the powerful chamber of parliament.

Consequently, her government will depend on other MPs to pass legislation, introducing a layer of complexity to her leadership.

Common Views and Differing Interests

Takaichi holds the former president's suspicion of Chinese defense presence in the region, yet both nations have experienced issues from his "America-first" economic policies.

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

Defense Expansion and Budget Commitments

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

This step aligns with a long-held demand from Trump and represents the largest defense buildup for the nation since the Second World War.

Security Partnership and Tensions

Japan has also taken steps to obtain "counterstrike" abilities, including cruise missiles from the United States, and intends to deploy locally made longer-range systems.

However, the two-way security agreement remains a point of strain, with Trump earlier suggesting that Japan should pay more for stationing American forces on its territory.

Economic Expectations and Talks

Few anticipate significant concessions on trade issues during the visit, particularly after recent tariff changes offered some relief to the country's export sector.

The PM is likely to pursue further relief by committing to increased acquisitions of American products, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Individual Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link

The value the former president attributes to personal rapport could work in Takaichi's favor, given her close relationship with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was among his favorite international figures.

He was the initial foreign figure to visit Trump after his victory, and the pair built a strong bond over mutual interests such as the sport.

Upcoming Agenda and International Implications

Trump's trip to Japan will begin with a meeting with the Emperor at the royal residence in Tokyo.

This will be succeeded by discussions with the PM at the state guest house, the very location where he met with the former leader in 2019.

Afterward, Trump will travel to South Korea for the APEC summit, where he is set to engage with China's president Xi Jinping.