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Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her initial significant diplomatic examination as she engages with ex-President Donald Trump for important negotiations in the Japanese capital.

Attention of their encounter is anticipated to focus on economic and security topics, marking a critical moment for Tokyo's ties with its influential partner.

The Historic Leadership and Global Debut

Takaichi, who recently became Japan's first female leader after securing the leadership of the governing LDP, made her international debut at the latest Asean summit.

But, her upcoming meeting with the former president is considered the true challenge that will set the tone for coming two-way relations.

Managing Internal and Global Pressures

The prime minister faces a potentially shaky political situation, having formed a coalition that puts her a couple of votes short of a controlling number in the influential chamber of the Diet.

This means, her government will rely on opposition lawmakers to pass laws, adding a element of complexity to her governance.

Shared Perspectives and Diverging Interests

Takaichi holds the former president's suspicion of Chinese defense presence in the region, but each countries have experienced challenges from his "America-first" economic policies.

Lately, the former president facilitated a ceasefire deal between Thailand and Cambodia authorities during the initial stage of his Asia tour.

Military Expansion and Spending Commitments

The leader has stated her determination to accelerate Japan's military build-up, planning to increase defense expenditure to 2% of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This move aligns with a long-held demand from Trump and signifies the biggest military expansion for the nation since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

The country has also taken steps to obtain "retaliatory" abilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the US, and plans to use locally made extended-range missiles.

But, the bilateral defense treaty is still a point of tension, with Trump previously suggesting that the nation should contribute more for hosting US troops on its soil.

Trade Outlook and Negotiations

Few anticipate significant agreements on trade issues during the visit, particularly after latest tariff changes offered some ease to the country's economy.

The PM is expected to pursue further benefits by promising greater acquisitions of American products, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and natural gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The importance Trump attributes to personal chemistry could benefit the PM's favor, given her close relationship with assassinated former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite international figures.

Abe was the initial international figure to visit the then president-elect after his election, and the two built a close bond over shared activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Agenda and Regional Implications

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

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

Afterward, the former president will travel to the Republic of Korea for the APEC summit, where he is set to engage with Chinese leader Xi.