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Japan's newly elected leader, Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her first major foreign policy examination as she meets former US President Donald Trump for high-stakes discussions in Tokyo.

The agenda of their meeting is anticipated to focus on trade and security issues, marking a key juncture for Japan's ties with its powerful ally.

A Notable Leadership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who recently assumed the role of Japan's initial woman leader after winning the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had her international introduction at the recent Asean meeting.

But, her forthcoming talks with the former president is considered the real test that will set the tone for coming two-way relations.

Navigating Internal and Global Pressures

The prime minister confronts a potentially unstable government landscape, having established a coalition that puts her two seats away of a majority in the powerful chamber of the Diet.

This means, her administration will rely on other lawmakers to pass laws, adding a element of complexity to her leadership.

Shared Perspectives and Diverging Interests

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of Chinese military presence in the region, but each countries have experienced issues from his "America-first" economic approach.

Lately, the former president oversaw a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodian forces on the first leg of his Asia tour.

Defense Expansion and Budget Commitments

The leader has expressed her commitment to speed up Japan's military build-up, aiming to increase defense spending to two percent of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This step matches a longstanding demand from the former US leader and represents the largest defense buildup for the nation since the WWII.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

Japan has also moved to obtain "counterstrike" abilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the United States, and intends to use locally made longer-range missiles.

However, the bilateral security agreement is still a point of strain, with Trump previously suggesting that the nation should pay more for hosting US troops on its territory.

Economic Expectations and Negotiations

Not many anticipate significant concessions on trade matters this week, particularly after recent duty changes offered a degree of relief to the country's economy.

The PM is expected to seek additional benefits by committing to increased purchases of American products, including vehicles, soybeans, and gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Abe Link

The importance the former president places on personal chemistry could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her strong ties with the late ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of his preferred international figures.

Abe was the initial foreign figure to meet the then president-elect after his victory, and the two built a close bond over mutual activities such as golf.

Forthcoming Agenda and International Significance

The former president's visit to the country will begin with a meeting with Emperor Naruhito at the royal residence in Tokyo.

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

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