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The nation's freshly appointed leader, Sanae Takaichi, is set to confront her first major diplomatic test as she meets ex-President Donald Trump for important discussions in the Japanese capital.

Attention of their meeting is anticipated to focus on economic and defense issues, representing a critical moment for Japan's relationship with its powerful partner.

A Notable Premiership and Global Debut

Takaichi, 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 summit.

However, her upcoming talks with the former president is seen as the true challenge that will set the tone for coming bilateral relations.

Navigating Internal and International Pressures

The prime minister deals with a possibly unstable government landscape, having formed a coalition that puts her two seats short of a majority in the powerful chamber of the Diet.

Consequently, her administration will depend on opposition lawmakers to pass legislation, introducing a element of difficulty to her governance.

Common Perspectives and Differing Policies

Takaichi shares the former president's suspicion of China's defense presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet each countries have experienced challenges from his "America-first" economic policies.

Recently, the former president oversaw a truce agreement between Thailand and Cambodian authorities on the first stage of his Asian tour.

Defense Build-up and Spending Commitments

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

This move aligns with a long-held demand from the former US leader and signifies the biggest military buildup for Japan since the Second World War.

Security Partnership and Tensions

Japan has also taken steps to obtain "counterstrike" abilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the United States, and intends to use locally made extended-range systems.

But, the bilateral defense treaty is still a source of strain, with Trump previously stating that the nation should pay more for stationing US troops on its soil.

Trade Expectations and Negotiations

Few expect significant concessions on economic issues this week, especially after latest tariff changes offered some relief to Japan's economy.

The PM is likely to pursue further relief by promising greater purchases of American goods, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and natural gas.

Personal Rapport and the Abe Connection

The importance the former president places on personal rapport could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her close ties with the late former prime minister Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite international figures.

Abe was the first international figure to meet the then president-elect after his victory, and the two built a close relationship over mutual interests such as golf.

Forthcoming Agenda and International Significance

The former president's trip to the country will begin with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

This will be followed by talks with Takaichi at the state guest house, the same location where Trump held talks with Abe in previous years.

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