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The nation's newly elected prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her first major diplomatic examination as she meets ex-President Trump for crucial discussions in Tokyo.

The agenda of their encounter is likely to revolve around economic and defense topics, marking a critical juncture for Japan's ties with its influential partner.

A Notable Premiership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who just assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after securing the top position of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, made her global introduction at the latest Asean summit.

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

Navigating Internal and Global Challenges

Takaichi faces a possibly shaky government landscape, having established a partnership that leaves her a couple of votes away of a majority in the influential lower house of the Diet.

Consequently, her administration will depend on other MPs to approve laws, introducing a element of complexity to her leadership.

Shared Views and Differing Interests

She shares the former president's wariness of Chinese defense activities in the region, but each countries have experienced issues from his "America-first" economic policies.

Lately, the former president oversaw a ceasefire deal between Thai and Cambodian forces on the initial leg of his Asia visit.

Military Build-up and Budget Commitments

The leader has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, aiming to increase defense expenditure to two percent of GDP by the end of March.

This move aligns with a longstanding demand from Trump and signifies the largest defense buildup for the nation since the WWII.

Security Cooperation and Strains

Japan has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the US, and plans to deploy domestically developed longer-range missiles.

But, the two-way security treaty is still a source of tension, with Trump previously stating that the nation should contribute more for hosting American forces on its territory.

Economic Outlook and Negotiations

Not many anticipate significant agreements on economic issues this week, particularly after recent tariff changes provided some relief to the country's economy.

The PM is likely to seek additional benefits by promising greater purchases of American goods, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and gas.

Individual Rapport and the Abe Connection

The value the former president places on individual chemistry could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her close relationship with the late ex-leader Abe, who was among Trump's preferred world leaders.

He was the first international leader to visit Trump after his victory, and the two built a strong bond over shared activities such as golf.

Upcoming Agenda and Regional Significance

The former president's trip to Japan will start with a audience with the Emperor at the royal residence in the capital.

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

Afterward, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the APEC summit, where he is scheduled to engage with Chinese president Xi Jinping.