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The nation's recently chosen prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to confront her first major diplomatic examination as she meets former US President Donald Trump for crucial discussions in Tokyo.

Attention of their meeting is expected to focus on economic and security matters, marking a critical juncture for Japan's relationship with its powerful ally.

The Notable Leadership and International Introduction

The new PM, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female prime minister after winning the top position of the governing LDP, made her global debut at the recent Asean meeting.

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

Managing Domestic and Global Pressures

Takaichi deals with a possibly shaky political landscape, having formed a coalition that leaves her two seats short of a majority in the influential chamber of the Diet.

Consequently, her administration will rely on opposition lawmakers to approve laws, adding a layer of complexity to her governance.

Common Perspectives and Differing Interests

She shares the former president's suspicion of China's defense presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet each nations have experienced challenges from his "America-first" trade approach.

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

Military Expansion and Budget Pledges

Takaichi has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's military expansion, aiming to increase defense expenditure to 2% of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This move matches a long-held request from the former US leader and represents the biggest defense expansion for Japan since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

The country has also moved to acquire "counterstrike" abilities, including cruise missiles from the US, and intends to use domestically developed longer-range systems.

But, the bilateral defense agreement is still a source of tension, with the former president earlier stating that the nation should pay more for hosting American troops on its territory.

Economic Expectations and Talks

Not many anticipate significant agreements on trade issues during the visit, particularly after latest duty adjustments provided a degree of relief to the country's economy.

Takaichi is likely to pursue further benefits by committing to increased acquisitions of American goods, including vehicles, soybeans, and gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The importance the former president places on personal rapport could benefit the PM's favor, given her close ties with the late ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of his favorite international figures.

Abe was the first foreign leader to meet Trump after his victory, and the two built a close bond over mutual interests such as golf.

Upcoming Agenda and International Significance

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

It will be followed by discussions with the PM at the official residence, the very location where he met with the former leader in 2019.

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