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Japan's recently chosen leader, Sanae Takaichi, is ready to confront her first major diplomatic challenge as she meets ex-President Donald Trump for high-stakes negotiations in the Japanese capital.

The agenda of their encounter is expected to center on economic and defense issues, marking a pivotal moment for Tokyo's ties with its influential ally.

A Significant Leadership and Global Introduction

The new PM, who just became Japan's first female prime minister after securing the top position of the ruling LDP, had her global introduction at the recent Asean meeting.

But, her upcoming talks with Trump is seen as the true test that will set the tone for coming two-way relations.

Managing Domestic and Global Challenges

Takaichi confronts a potentially shaky government situation, having established a coalition that leaves her two seats away of a controlling number in the powerful chamber of parliament.

This means, her administration will rely on opposition MPs to pass legislation, introducing a element of complexity to her governance.

Common Views and Differing Policies

Takaichi shares Trump's wariness of Chinese defense activities in the Asia-Pacific, but both countries have experienced challenges from Trump's "America-first" trade policies.

Lately, the former president facilitated a truce agreement between Thai and Cambodia authorities on the first stage of his Asia tour.

Defense Build-up and Budget Commitments

Takaichi has stated her commitment to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, planning to increase military spending to 2% of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This move aligns with a long-held request from the former US leader and represents the largest military expansion for the nation since the WWII.

Defense Partnership and Strains

Japan has also taken steps to obtain "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise missiles from the United States, and plans to use domestically developed extended-range systems.

But, the two-way defense treaty remains a source of strain, with the former president previously suggesting that Japan should pay more for hosting US forces on its territory.

Trade Outlook and Talks

Not many anticipate significant agreements on economic issues this week, especially after latest tariff changes offered some relief to Japan's export sector.

Takaichi is expected to seek further benefits by committing to greater purchases of American products, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Abe Link

The value Trump attributes to personal chemistry could work in Takaichi's advantage, given her close ties with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was among Trump's favorite international figures.

He was the first international leader to visit Trump after his election, and the two developed a strong relationship over shared activities such as golf.

Upcoming Schedule and International Significance

The former president's trip to the country will begin with a meeting with the Emperor at the royal residence in the capital.

It will be succeeded by talks with the PM at the official residence, the same venue where Trump held talks with the former leader in 2019.

Subsequently, the former president will proceed to South Korea for the Apec summit, where he is set to meet Chinese leader Xi.