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Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is ready to undertake her initial significant diplomatic examination as she engages with ex-President Donald Trump for crucial discussions in Tokyo.

The agenda of their summit is likely to focus on trade and defense topics, representing a pivotal juncture for Japan's relationship with its powerful ally.

The Historic Premiership and International Debut

Takaichi, who just became Japan's initial woman prime minister after securing the top position of the governing LDP, made her global introduction at the latest ASEAN summit.

But, her forthcoming talks with the former president is seen as the real test that will set the tone for coming bilateral relations.

Managing Internal and Global Challenges

The prime minister faces a possibly shaky political situation, having formed a coalition that puts her a couple of votes away of a controlling number in the powerful chamber of the Diet.

Consequently, her government will depend on other lawmakers to pass legislation, adding a element of difficulty to her governance.

Shared Perspectives and Differing Policies

Takaichi holds Trump's wariness of Chinese military presence in the Asia-Pacific, but both nations have experienced challenges from his "America-first" trade approach.

Lately, the former president facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodian authorities during the first leg of his Asian tour.

Defense Build-up and Budget Commitments

Takaichi has stated her determination to speed up Japan's military expansion, planning to raise defense expenditure to two percent of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This step aligns with a longstanding demand from Trump and signifies the biggest defense expansion for the nation since the WWII.

Security Cooperation and Tensions

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

However, the two-way defense treaty is still a source of tension, with Trump previously stating that the nation should contribute more for stationing US troops on its territory.

Economic Outlook and Talks

Not many expect significant agreements on trade issues this week, especially after recent duty adjustments offered a degree of relief to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is likely to pursue further benefits by committing to increased acquisitions of US goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The importance the former president places on individual chemistry could benefit Takaichi's advantage, given her strong relationship with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was among his preferred international figures.

Abe was the first foreign figure to visit the then president-elect after his election, and the pair developed a close relationship over mutual activities such as golf.

Forthcoming Schedule and International Significance

The former president's trip to the country will start with a meeting with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

This will be succeeded by discussions with Takaichi at the state guest house, the same venue where he held talks with the former leader in 2019.

Subsequently, Trump will travel to South Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is scheduled to meet China's leader Xi.