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The nation's newly elected leader, Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her primary diplomatic examination as she sits down with ex-President Trump for high-stakes discussions in Tokyo.

The agenda of their encounter is anticipated to focus on trade and defense topics, marking a pivotal juncture for Japan's ties with its powerful partner.

The Historic Leadership and Global Debut

Takaichi, who just assumed the role of Japan's initial woman leader after securing the leadership of the ruling LDP, made her international debut at the latest ASEAN meeting.

However, her forthcoming talks with the former president is considered the real challenge that will set the tone for coming two-way cooperation.

Navigating Internal and Global Pressures

Takaichi faces a potentially shaky government situation, having formed a coalition that leaves her two seats away of a majority in the influential lower house of parliament.

This means, her administration will rely on opposition lawmakers to approve laws, adding a layer of complexity to her leadership.

Shared Perspectives and Differing Interests

She shares the former president's wariness of China's military activities in the Asia-Pacific, but both countries have experienced issues from his "America-first" trade approach.

Recently, Trump oversaw a truce agreement between Thai and Cambodian authorities during the initial leg of his Asian visit.

Defense Build-up and Budget Pledges

Takaichi has stated her determination to accelerate Japan's military expansion, planning to raise defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This move aligns with a long-held request from Trump and represents the biggest military buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Security Cooperation and Tensions

The country has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and intends to deploy domestically developed longer-range systems.

However, the bilateral security agreement remains a source of strain, with the former president previously stating that Japan should pay more for hosting American forces on its soil.

Economic Expectations and Negotiations

Few expect significant agreements on trade issues during the visit, especially after latest tariff adjustments offered a degree of ease to the country's economy.

The PM is likely to pursue further benefits by promising increased purchases of US goods, including vehicles, soybeans, and gas.

Individual Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The value the former president places on individual rapport could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her strong ties with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of his favorite international figures.

He was the first foreign leader to visit Trump after his election, and the pair built a strong relationship over mutual activities such as the sport.

Upcoming Agenda and Regional Implications

Trump's visit to Japan will start with a meeting with the Emperor at the royal residence in Tokyo.

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

Subsequently, the former president will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the APEC summit, where he is scheduled to meet China's president Xi Jinping.