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The nation's freshly appointed leader, Sanae Takaichi, is ready to undertake her initial significant diplomatic test as she meets ex-President Donald Trump for high-stakes talks in the Japanese capital.

Attention of their encounter is anticipated to focus on economic and defense matters, representing a critical juncture for Tokyo's ties with its powerful partner.

A Significant Premiership and Global Debut

The new PM, who recently became Japan's first female prime minister after winning the leadership of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, made her international introduction at the latest ASEAN summit.

But, her forthcoming talks with Trump is seen as the true test that will set the tone for coming two-way relations.

Handling Domestic and Global Pressures

The prime minister confronts a potentially unstable political landscape, having established a coalition that leaves her a couple of votes short of a majority in the influential chamber of parliament.

This means, her government will rely on other lawmakers to approve legislation, adding a element of complexity to her leadership.

Common Perspectives and Differing Interests

She holds Trump's suspicion of Chinese military presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet both nations have experienced challenges from his "America-first" trade policies.

Lately, Trump oversaw a truce deal between Thailand and Cambodia authorities during the first stage of his Asian tour.

Defense Expansion and Budget Pledges

Takaichi has stated her commitment to accelerate Japan's defense expansion, aiming to increase military spending to two percent of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This step aligns with a long-held request from the former US leader and signifies the biggest military buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Defense Cooperation and Tensions

Japan has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" abilities, including cruise missiles from the US, and plans to deploy locally made extended-range systems.

But, the two-way defense treaty is still a source of strain, with Trump previously suggesting that Japan should contribute more for hosting American forces on its soil.

Economic Expectations and Negotiations

Not many anticipate significant agreements on economic matters during the visit, particularly after recent duty changes offered some ease to Japan's export sector.

Takaichi is expected to seek additional relief by promising increased purchases of US goods, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Link

The importance the former president attributes to individual chemistry could work in the PM's favor, given her strong relationship with the late former prime minister Abe, who was among Trump's favorite international figures.

Abe was the initial international leader to meet the then president-elect after his election, and the pair built a close relationship over mutual activities such as the sport.

Upcoming Schedule and International Significance

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

This will be followed by talks with the PM at the official residence, the same location where Trump met with Abe in 2019.

Subsequently, Trump will travel to the Republic of Korea for the APEC summit, where he is scheduled to engage with China's president Xi Jinping.