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Japan's recently chosen leader, Sanae Takaichi, is set to confront her primary diplomatic test as she sits down with former US President Trump for crucial talks in the Japanese capital.

Attention of their summit is likely to focus on economic and security topics, marking a pivotal moment for Japan's relationship with its powerful ally.

A Historic Premiership and Global Introduction

Takaichi, who recently became Japan's initial woman prime minister after securing the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had her global debut at the recent ASEAN summit.

But, her upcoming meeting with Trump is regarded as the real challenge that will establish the direction for coming two-way relations.

Navigating Domestic and International Challenges

Takaichi faces a possibly shaky political landscape, having formed a coalition that puts her two seats away of a controlling number in the powerful chamber of parliament.

Consequently, her government will rely on opposition MPs to approve laws, adding a element of complexity to her leadership.

Shared Perspectives and Diverging Interests

Takaichi holds Trump's wariness of Chinese military presence in the region, but both countries have faced issues from his "America-first" economic policies.

Recently, Trump oversaw a truce agreement between Thailand and Cambodia authorities during the initial leg of his Asia visit.

Military Expansion and Spending Commitments

Takaichi has stated her determination to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, planning to increase defense spending to two percent of GDP by the end of March.

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

Security Partnership and Tensions

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

However, the bilateral security agreement is still a source of strain, with Trump previously stating that Japan should pay more for hosting American forces on its soil.

Trade Expectations and Talks

Few expect major concessions on trade issues during the visit, especially after latest tariff changes provided some ease to the country's economy.

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

Individual Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link

The importance the former president attributes to individual chemistry could benefit the PM's favor, given her strong relationship with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite world leaders.

Abe was the first international figure to meet Trump after his victory, and the pair developed a strong relationship over mutual interests such as golf.

Upcoming Agenda and Regional Significance

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

It will be followed by talks with the PM at the official residence, the same venue where he met with the former leader in previous years.

Subsequently, Trump will travel to the Republic of Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is set to engage with China's president Xi Jinping.