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The nation's recently chosen prime minister, Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her first major diplomatic examination as she sits down with former US President Trump for crucial negotiations in Tokyo.

The agenda of their encounter is expected to revolve around economic and defense topics, signaling a key juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its powerful ally.

A Notable Premiership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who recently became Japan's first female leader after securing the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, made her international debut at the recent ASEAN summit.

But, her upcoming meeting with the former president is seen as the real test that will establish the direction for coming two-way cooperation.

Navigating Domestic and Global Challenges

Takaichi faces a possibly shaky government landscape, having formed a coalition that puts her two seats short of a controlling number in the powerful lower house of parliament.

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

Shared Perspectives and Differing Interests

Takaichi shares the former president's wariness of China's defense presence in the region, but each nations have experienced issues from Trump's "America-first" trade policies.

Recently, Trump oversaw a ceasefire deal between Thai and Cambodia forces on the first stage of his Asian tour.

Military Expansion and Budget Commitments

The leader has stated her determination to speed up Japan's military build-up, planning to raise military spending to 2% of GDP by the end of March.

This move matches a long-held request from the former US leader and represents the biggest military buildup for the nation since the Second World War.

Defense Cooperation and Strains

The country has also taken steps to obtain "counterstrike" abilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the US, and plans to deploy domestically developed extended-range missiles.

But, the bilateral defense treaty remains a source of tension, with the former president earlier suggesting that the nation should contribute more for stationing American forces on its soil.

Trade Outlook and Talks

Few anticipate major agreements on trade issues during the visit, especially after recent tariff adjustments offered some relief to Japan's export sector.

The PM is likely to pursue further relief by promising increased acquisitions of US goods, including vehicles, soybeans, and natural gas.

Individual Rapport and the Abe Link

The value the former president places on individual chemistry could work in the PM's favor, given her close relationship with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was among his preferred world leaders.

He was the first foreign figure to visit Trump after his election, and the two developed a strong bond over shared interests such as the sport.

Forthcoming Agenda and Regional Implications

The former president's trip to Japan will start with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

This will be succeeded by discussions with the PM at the official residence, the very venue where he met with the former leader in previous years.

Subsequently, the former president will travel to South Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is set to meet Chinese president Xi.