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Japan's newly elected prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is set to undertake her first major diplomatic test as she sits down with ex-President Donald Trump for important discussions in Tokyo.

The focus of their summit is likely to revolve around trade and security matters, marking a critical juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its powerful ally.

A Significant Leadership and International Debut

Takaichi, who just assumed the role of Japan's first female prime minister after winning the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had her international introduction at the recent ASEAN meeting.

However, her forthcoming talks with Trump is regarded as the true challenge that will set the tone for future two-way cooperation.

Handling Domestic and Global Challenges

The prime minister confronts a possibly unstable political situation, having formed a coalition that leaves her a couple of votes away of a majority in the powerful chamber of the Diet.

This means, her administration will depend on opposition lawmakers to approve laws, adding a layer of complexity to her governance.

Common Perspectives and Diverging Interests

She shares Trump's suspicion of Chinese military activities in the region, but both nations have experienced challenges from his "US-first" trade policies.

Recently, Trump facilitated a truce deal between Thai and Cambodia authorities during the initial leg of his Asia tour.

Military Build-up and Budget Pledges

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

This move matches a long-held demand from Trump and represents the largest military buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Security Partnership and Tensions

The country has also taken steps to obtain "retaliatory" capabilities, including cruise missiles from the US, and plans to deploy domestically developed extended-range missiles.

However, the two-way defense agreement remains a source of tension, with Trump earlier suggesting that Japan should contribute more for hosting American troops on its soil.

Trade Outlook and Talks

Few expect major agreements on trade matters this week, especially after recent tariff changes provided some ease to Japan's economy.

The PM is likely to pursue further benefits by promising increased purchases of American goods, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and gas.

Personal Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link

The value Trump attributes to individual chemistry could work in the PM's favor, given her strong relationship with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of his favorite international figures.

Abe was the initial foreign leader to meet Trump after his election, and the two built a close relationship over shared activities such as golf.

Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Significance

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

It will be succeeded by talks with Takaichi at the state guest house, the same location where Trump held talks with Abe in previous years.

Afterward, the former president will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec summit, where he is scheduled to engage with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.