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Japan's freshly appointed prime minister, Takaichi, is set to face her primary diplomatic examination as she sits down with ex-President Donald Trump for important talks in Tokyo.

The focus of their encounter is likely to focus on trade and security topics, signaling a pivotal moment for Tokyo's ties with its powerful ally.

The Notable Leadership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who recently became Japan's first female leader after winning the leadership of the governing LDP, made her international debut at the recent Asean summit.

But, her upcoming talks with the former president is regarded as the real test that will establish the direction for future bilateral cooperation.

Handling Internal and International Challenges

The prime minister confronts a possibly unstable political landscape, having formed a coalition that leaves her a couple of votes short of a controlling number in the influential chamber of parliament.

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

Common Views and Diverging Policies

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of Chinese defense activities in the region, yet each countries have experienced challenges from his "US-first" trade approach.

Recently, the former president facilitated a truce deal between Thai and Cambodian authorities during the initial stage of his Asian visit.

Military Build-up and Budget Commitments

Takaichi has stated her determination to speed up Japan's military expansion, aiming to increase defense spending to two percent of GDP by the end of March.

This move aligns with a longstanding demand from the former US leader and represents the largest defense expansion for Japan since the WWII.

Security Partnership and Tensions

The country has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" abilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and intends to deploy locally made longer-range systems.

However, the bilateral security treaty is still a point of strain, with the former president earlier stating that the nation should pay more for hosting American troops on its territory.

Trade Outlook and Talks

Not many anticipate significant concessions on trade matters this week, especially after recent tariff adjustments offered some ease to the country's economy.

The PM is expected to pursue further benefits by promising increased acquisitions of American goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Personal Rapport and the Abe Link

The value Trump places on personal chemistry could benefit Takaichi's advantage, given her strong relationship with assassinated former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was among his favorite international figures.

Abe was the initial international leader to meet Trump after his election, and the pair developed a close relationship over mutual interests such as the sport.

Upcoming Agenda and International Significance

Trump's trip to Japan will start with a audience with the Emperor at the royal residence in the capital.

This will be followed by discussions with Takaichi at the official residence, the same venue where he met with Abe in 2019.

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