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Japan's newly elected leader, Sanae Takaichi, is set to confront her primary diplomatic test as she sits down with ex-President Donald Trump for crucial talks in Tokyo.

The focus of their meeting is expected to center on trade and security matters, representing a critical moment for Japan's relationship with its influential partner.

The Notable Premiership and Global Introduction

Takaichi, who recently became Japan's first female leader after winning the leadership of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, had her international introduction at the recent Asean meeting.

But, her forthcoming talks with Trump is considered the true challenge that will establish the direction for coming two-way relations.

Managing Internal and Global Pressures

The prime minister confronts a possibly shaky political landscape, having formed a coalition that puts her two seats away of a controlling number in the powerful lower house of the Diet.

This means, her government will depend on other lawmakers to pass laws, adding a layer of complexity to her leadership.

Shared Perspectives and Diverging Interests

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of China's military presence in the region, yet each nations have experienced challenges from Trump's "US-first" economic approach.

Recently, Trump facilitated a truce deal between Thailand and Cambodian authorities on the initial leg of his Asian tour.

Military Build-up and Budget Pledges

The leader has stated her determination to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, planning to raise defense expenditure to 2% of GDP by the end of March.

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

Defense Cooperation and Strains

Japan has also taken steps to obtain "counterstrike" abilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the US, and intends to deploy locally made extended-range missiles.

However, the two-way security agreement remains a point of tension, with the former president earlier stating that the nation should pay more for stationing American troops on its soil.

Trade Outlook and Negotiations

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

The PM is likely to seek further relief by committing to greater acquisitions of American products, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and gas.

Individual Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The value Trump attributes to personal chemistry could work in Takaichi's advantage, given her strong relationship with assassinated former prime minister Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite world leaders.

He was the initial foreign leader to visit the then president-elect after his victory, and the pair built a strong bond over shared interests such as golf.

Forthcoming Agenda and International Implications

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

It will be succeeded by discussions with the PM at the official residence, the very location where he met with the former leader in previous years.

Subsequently, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the APEC summit, where he is set to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping.