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The nation's newly elected prime minister, Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her initial significant diplomatic challenge as she engages with ex-President Trump for important discussions in the Japanese capital.

The focus of their summit is likely to focus on trade and security issues, representing a critical moment for Japan's relationship with its powerful partner.

The Notable Leadership and Global Debut

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

But, her upcoming talks with Trump is considered the true challenge that will set the tone for coming bilateral cooperation.

Managing Domestic and International Pressures

The prime minister deals with a possibly unstable government situation, having established a coalition that leaves her a couple of votes away of a controlling number in the powerful lower house of the Diet.

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

Shared Views and Differing Interests

She holds Trump's wariness of China's military presence in the region, but both countries have faced challenges from his "US-first" trade policies.

Lately, the former president facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodian authorities on the first stage of his Asian visit.

Military Build-up and Spending Commitments

The leader has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's military build-up, aiming to raise military spending to two percent of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This step aligns with a long-held demand from Trump and signifies the largest defense expansion for the nation since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Strains

Japan has also taken steps to obtain "counterstrike" abilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the US, and intends to deploy domestically developed longer-range systems.

But, the two-way defense treaty remains a point of tension, with the former president previously suggesting that the nation should contribute more for hosting US forces on its territory.

Economic Expectations and Negotiations

Not many anticipate significant agreements on trade matters during the visit, especially after recent tariff adjustments offered a degree of ease to Japan's economy.

The PM is likely to seek additional benefits by promising greater acquisitions of US products, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Abe Link

The value Trump attributes to personal rapport could work in the PM's favor, given her close relationship with assassinated former prime minister Abe, who was among his favorite world leaders.

He was the first international leader to meet the then president-elect after his election, and the pair built a strong relationship over mutual interests such as the sport.

Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Significance

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

It will be succeeded by discussions with Takaichi at the state guest house, the very location where Trump held talks with the former leader in 2019.

Subsequently, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the APEC summit, where he is scheduled to engage with Chinese president Xi Jinping.