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Japan's freshly appointed prime minister, Takaichi, is ready to face her primary diplomatic test as she meets ex-President Trump for crucial discussions in the Japanese capital.

The focus of their encounter is likely to revolve around economic and defense topics, marking a critical moment for Tokyo's relationship with its powerful ally.

The Historic Premiership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who just assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after winning the top position of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had her global debut at the recent ASEAN summit.

However, her forthcoming talks with the former president is regarded as the real test that will establish the direction for coming bilateral cooperation.

Navigating Domestic and International Challenges

Takaichi confronts a potentially unstable government landscape, having formed a coalition that puts her two seats short of a majority in the powerful lower house of the Diet.

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

Shared Perspectives and Differing Policies

She holds Trump's suspicion of China's defense presence in the region, but each countries have experienced challenges from his "America-first" trade policies.

Lately, Trump facilitated a truce agreement between Thailand and Cambodian forces on the initial leg of his Asia tour.

Defense Build-up and Spending Commitments

The leader has stated her determination to accelerate Japan's defense expansion, planning to increase defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This move matches a long-held request from Trump and signifies the largest defense expansion for Japan since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

The country has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" abilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the United States, and plans to deploy locally made longer-range missiles.

But, the two-way security agreement remains a source of strain, with the former president previously suggesting that the nation should contribute more for stationing US troops on its territory.

Economic Expectations and Talks

Few anticipate major concessions on economic matters during the visit, particularly after latest tariff changes offered some ease to Japan's export sector.

Takaichi is likely to pursue additional benefits by promising increased acquisitions of American goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Individual Rapport and the Abe Link

The importance the former president attributes to personal rapport could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her strong ties with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was among Trump's preferred international figures.

Abe was the first international figure to visit the then president-elect after his election, and the two built a strong relationship over shared interests such as golf.

Upcoming Schedule and Regional Significance

Trump's trip to Japan will begin with a meeting with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

This will be succeeded by discussions with the PM at the official residence, the same location where Trump held talks with the former leader in previous years.

Afterward, the former president will travel to South Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is scheduled to engage with Chinese president Xi Jinping.