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Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Takaichi, is set to confront her initial significant diplomatic examination as she meets former US President Donald Trump for important talks in Tokyo.

Attention of their summit is expected to focus on trade and security matters, representing a key juncture for Japan's ties with its powerful partner.

The Historic Leadership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who recently became Japan's initial woman leader after winning the top position of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, made her global debut at the recent Asean summit.

However, her forthcoming meeting with the former president is considered the real test that will set the tone for coming two-way relations.

Navigating Domestic and Global Challenges

Takaichi confronts a possibly shaky government situation, having established a partnership that puts her a couple of votes short of a majority in the powerful chamber of parliament.

Consequently, her administration will rely on other MPs to approve legislation, adding a layer of complexity to her leadership.

Common Perspectives and Differing Interests

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of China's military activities in the Asia-Pacific, but both countries have faced issues from his "US-first" trade policies.

Lately, the former president oversaw a truce agreement between Thai and Cambodian authorities during the first leg of his Asian visit.

Military Expansion and Budget Commitments

The leader has stated her commitment to accelerate Japan's military build-up, aiming to raise military expenditure to two percent of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This step matches a longstanding demand from the former US leader and signifies the largest defense expansion for Japan since the Second World War.

Defense Cooperation and Tensions

Japan has also taken steps to obtain "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the United States, and intends to use locally made longer-range missiles.

However, the bilateral security agreement is still a point of tension, with the former president earlier stating that the nation should pay more for stationing American troops on its territory.

Trade Expectations and Talks

Not many expect major concessions on economic issues during the visit, particularly after recent duty adjustments offered some ease to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is expected to pursue additional relief by promising increased purchases of American products, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Abe Connection

The value the former president attributes to individual chemistry could benefit the PM's favor, given her strong ties with assassinated former prime minister Abe, who was among Trump's preferred international figures.

Abe was the initial international leader to meet the then president-elect after his victory, and the two developed a close relationship over mutual activities such as golf.

Upcoming Schedule and Regional Implications

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

It will be followed by discussions with Takaichi at the state guest house, the very location where Trump held talks with Abe in 2019.

Subsequently, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the Apec summit, where he is scheduled to engage with China's president Xi Jinping.