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The nation's newly elected prime minister, Takaichi, is set to undertake her primary diplomatic test as she sits down with ex-President Donald Trump for high-stakes negotiations in Tokyo.

The focus of their encounter is likely to focus on economic and security issues, marking a critical juncture for Japan's ties with its powerful ally.

A Significant Premiership and International Introduction

The new PM, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female prime minister after winning the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had her global debut at the recent ASEAN summit.

But, her upcoming talks with the former president is regarded as the true challenge that will set the tone for coming two-way relations.

Handling Domestic and Global Pressures

Takaichi deals with a potentially shaky government situation, having formed a partnership that leaves her two seats away of a majority in the powerful chamber of parliament.

This means, her government will depend on opposition lawmakers to approve legislation, adding a element of complexity to her governance.

Common Perspectives and Differing Policies

She shares Trump's wariness of Chinese defense presence in the region, but each nations have faced challenges from Trump's "America-first" trade approach.

Recently, Trump oversaw a truce agreement between Thai and Cambodian authorities on the initial stage of his Asian visit.

Military Expansion and Budget Pledges

The leader has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's defense expansion, planning to increase defense expenditure to two percent of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This move matches a long-held demand from the former US leader and represents the largest defense expansion for Japan since the Second World War.

Security Partnership and Strains

The country has also taken steps to obtain "retaliatory" abilities, including cruise weapons from the United States, and intends to use domestically developed extended-range missiles.

But, the two-way defense agreement is still a source of strain, with Trump earlier stating that the nation should contribute more for hosting US forces on its territory.

Trade Expectations and Talks

Not many expect significant concessions on trade issues during the visit, especially after latest duty changes offered a degree of ease to Japan's economy.

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

Individual Chemistry and the Abe Link

The importance Trump places on personal rapport could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her strong relationship with the late former prime minister Abe, who was among his preferred international figures.

He was the initial international leader to meet Trump after his victory, and the two developed a strong relationship over shared activities such as golf.

Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Implications

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

It will be succeeded by discussions 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 China's leader Xi.