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The nation's recently chosen leader, Takaichi, is preparing to face her primary foreign policy examination as she meets former US President Trump for important negotiations in the Japanese capital.

Attention of their summit is anticipated to revolve around trade and defense topics, marking a pivotal juncture for Tokyo's ties with its influential ally.

The Notable Premiership and International Debut

Takaichi, who recently assumed the role of Japan's initial woman leader after securing the leadership of the governing LDP, made her international introduction at the latest Asean meeting.

However, her forthcoming meeting with Trump is regarded as the true test that will establish the direction for future bilateral relations.

Navigating Internal and Global Pressures

The prime minister deals with a possibly shaky government landscape, having formed a partnership that puts her two seats away of a controlling number in the influential lower house of parliament.

This means, her administration will rely on other lawmakers to pass laws, adding a layer of difficulty to her governance.

Common Views and Diverging Interests

She holds Trump's suspicion of China's defense activities in the region, but each countries have experienced issues from his "US-first" economic policies.

Lately, Trump facilitated a ceasefire deal between Thailand and Cambodian authorities on the first leg of his Asian tour.

Defense Expansion and Budget Commitments

Takaichi has stated her commitment to speed up Japan's military expansion, planning to increase military expenditure to two percent of GDP by the end of March.

This step matches a longstanding request from Trump and signifies the biggest military buildup for the nation since the Second World War.

Defense Cooperation and Strains

Japan has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the United States, and plans to use locally made extended-range missiles.

But, the two-way security treaty is still a source of tension, with Trump earlier stating that Japan should pay more for hosting US forces on its soil.

Trade Expectations and Talks

Few expect major agreements on trade issues this week, particularly after latest tariff changes offered a degree of relief to Japan's export sector.

Takaichi is expected to seek additional relief by committing to greater acquisitions of US goods, including vehicles, soybeans, and natural gas.

Individual Rapport and the Abe Link

The value the former president places on individual rapport could work in Takaichi's favor, given her strong relationship with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was among his favorite world leaders.

He was the first foreign leader to visit Trump after his election, and the two built a strong relationship over mutual interests such as golf.

Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Implications

Trump's visit to Japan will start with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

This will be followed by talks with the PM at the state guest house, the same venue where Trump held talks with Abe in 2019.

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