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The nation's recently chosen prime minister, Takaichi, is ready to confront her first major diplomatic test as she engages with ex-President Trump for high-stakes discussions in the Japanese capital.

The focus of their meeting is anticipated to center on economic and defense topics, signaling a pivotal juncture for Japan's relationship with its powerful ally.

The Significant Leadership and International Debut

The new PM, who just assumed the role of Japan's initial woman leader after securing the top position of the ruling LDP, made her international introduction at the recent ASEAN summit.

But, her forthcoming meeting with the former president is seen as the real challenge that will set the tone for future two-way cooperation.

Managing Domestic and Global Pressures

Takaichi faces a potentially shaky political landscape, having formed a coalition that leaves her two seats away of a majority in the powerful chamber of the Diet.

This means, her administration will rely on other lawmakers to pass legislation, adding a layer of difficulty to her governance.

Common Views and Differing Policies

She holds Trump's suspicion of Chinese military presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet both nations have faced challenges from Trump's "America-first" trade policies.

Lately, the former president facilitated a ceasefire deal between Thai and Cambodian forces during the initial stage of his Asia visit.

Military Expansion and Spending Pledges

The leader has stated her commitment to speed up Japan's defense build-up, aiming to raise military expenditure to two percent of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This move aligns with a longstanding demand from Trump and signifies the largest military expansion for Japan since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Strains

The country has also moved to obtain "retaliatory" abilities, including cruise weapons from the United States, and plans to deploy locally made extended-range systems.

However, the bilateral security agreement remains a point of tension, with Trump previously suggesting that Japan should contribute more for stationing American forces on its soil.

Trade Expectations and Talks

Few anticipate significant concessions on economic issues this week, especially after recent tariff adjustments offered some ease to the country's economy.

The PM is likely to seek further relief by promising increased purchases of American products, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The importance the former president places on individual rapport could benefit Takaichi's advantage, given her close relationship with assassinated former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was among his favorite world leaders.

Abe was the initial foreign leader to visit Trump after his victory, and the pair developed a strong bond over shared activities such as the sport.

Upcoming Agenda and International Implications

Trump's visit to the country will start with a audience with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

It will be followed by discussions with Takaichi at the official residence, the same venue where Trump held talks with Abe in previous years.

Afterward, Trump will travel to the Republic of Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is scheduled to meet China's leader Xi Jinping.