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Japan's freshly appointed leader, Takaichi, is set to undertake her first major foreign policy challenge as she sits down with ex-President Trump for important talks in Tokyo.

The focus of their meeting is expected to center on economic and security topics, marking a key moment for Tokyo's ties with its influential ally.

The Significant Premiership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who just assumed the role of Japan's initial woman leader after securing the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, made her international debut at the latest ASEAN meeting.

However, her forthcoming meeting with the former president is seen as the real challenge that will establish the direction for coming bilateral relations.

Handling Internal and Global Challenges

The prime minister confronts a potentially shaky political landscape, having formed a partnership that leaves her a couple of votes short of a controlling number in the influential chamber of the Diet.

This means, her administration will rely on opposition MPs to approve legislation, introducing a element of difficulty to her leadership.

Common Perspectives and Differing Policies

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

Lately, the former president oversaw a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodia authorities during the initial stage of his Asia tour.

Defense Expansion and Spending Pledges

Takaichi has expressed her commitment to accelerate Japan's military expansion, aiming to raise military expenditure to two percent of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This move aligns with a longstanding request from the former US leader and represents the biggest defense buildup for Japan since the Second World War.

Security Cooperation and Tensions

Japan has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the US, and intends to deploy locally made extended-range systems.

However, the bilateral defense treaty is still a point of tension, with Trump earlier suggesting that the nation should contribute more for hosting American forces on its territory.

Trade Expectations and Talks

Not many anticipate major agreements on economic issues this week, especially after latest tariff changes provided some ease to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is likely to pursue additional benefits by committing to increased purchases of US goods, including vehicles, soybeans, and natural gas.

Personal Rapport and the Abe Connection

The value the former president places on individual chemistry could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her strong ties with assassinated former prime minister Abe, who was one of his favorite international figures.

Abe was the initial foreign leader to meet Trump after his victory, and the two built a strong bond over shared activities such as golf.

Forthcoming Agenda and International Implications

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

It will be followed by talks with Takaichi at the state guest house, the same location where he held talks with Abe in 2019.

Subsequently, Trump will travel to the Republic of Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is scheduled to engage with Chinese president Xi Jinping.