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Japan's recently chosen leader, Takaichi, is ready to confront her first major foreign policy examination as she meets ex-President Trump for important talks in Tokyo.

The agenda of their meeting is expected to center on trade and defense topics, representing a critical moment for Japan's relationship with its powerful partner.

The Significant Leadership and Global Introduction

Takaichi, who recently became Japan's first female leader after winning the top position of the ruling LDP, had her global introduction at the latest Asean meeting.

But, her forthcoming talks with the former president is regarded as the true challenge that will establish the direction for future two-way cooperation.

Navigating Internal and International Pressures

The prime minister confronts a potentially shaky government landscape, having formed a partnership that leaves her a couple of votes away of a majority in the influential lower house of parliament.

Consequently, her administration will rely on other MPs to pass legislation, introducing a layer of complexity to her governance.

Shared Views and Diverging Interests

Takaichi holds Trump's wariness of China's military presence in the Asia-Pacific, but each nations have faced issues from his "US-first" trade approach.

Recently, the former president oversaw a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodia forces during the initial leg of his Asia tour.

Military Expansion and Budget Pledges

The leader has stated her commitment to accelerate Japan's military expansion, planning to increase defense spending to 2% of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This step matches a long-held demand from Trump and represents the largest defense buildup for the nation since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

The country has also taken steps to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including cruise missiles from the US, and plans to deploy domestically developed extended-range systems.

However, the bilateral defense treaty is still a source of tension, with the former president earlier suggesting that Japan should pay more for stationing American forces on its territory.

Trade Outlook and Negotiations

Few anticipate significant agreements on trade matters this week, particularly after latest duty changes provided a degree of relief to the country's economy.

The PM is likely to seek additional benefits by committing to greater acquisitions of US goods, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The value Trump places on personal rapport could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her strong ties with the late ex-leader Abe, who was among Trump's preferred world leaders.

He was the first foreign leader to visit the then president-elect after his election, and the two built a strong relationship over shared activities such as golf.

Upcoming Agenda and International Implications

The former president's visit to the country will start with a meeting with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

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

Subsequently, the former president will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is set to engage with Chinese president Xi.