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The nation's newly elected prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is set to face her primary diplomatic test as she meets former US President Trump for important talks in the Japanese capital.

Attention of their summit is expected to revolve around economic and security issues, signaling a key juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its powerful partner.

The Notable Premiership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who just assumed the role of Japan's initial woman leader after securing the leadership of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, had her international introduction at the latest ASEAN summit.

However, her upcoming talks with the former president is regarded as the real test that will set the tone for coming two-way relations.

Managing Domestic and Global Challenges

The prime minister confronts a possibly shaky government situation, having formed a partnership that puts her two seats away of a controlling number in the powerful chamber of parliament.

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

Shared Views and Diverging Interests

She holds the former president's suspicion of Chinese defense activities in the Asia-Pacific, but both nations have experienced issues from Trump's "America-first" trade policies.

Lately, the former president oversaw a ceasefire deal between Thai and Cambodian authorities during the initial stage of his Asia tour.

Military Build-up and Budget Commitments

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

This step matches a longstanding demand from Trump and represents the largest military buildup for the nation since the WWII.

Security Cooperation and Strains

Japan has also taken steps to acquire "retaliatory" abilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the United States, and intends to deploy domestically developed longer-range missiles.

However, the two-way security agreement remains a source of strain, with the former president earlier suggesting that Japan should pay more for hosting American forces on its territory.

Economic Outlook and Negotiations

Not many expect significant agreements on trade issues during the visit, particularly after latest duty adjustments provided some relief to Japan's export sector.

The PM is expected to seek further relief by committing to greater purchases of American products, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Personal Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link

The value the former president places on personal rapport could work in the PM's favor, given her strong relationship with the late former prime minister Abe, who was among his preferred world leaders.

He was the initial foreign figure to meet Trump after his victory, and the pair developed a strong relationship over mutual interests such as golf.

Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Significance

Trump's trip to Japan will begin with a meeting with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

It will be followed by talks with Takaichi at the official residence, the very location where Trump met with the former leader in 2019.

Afterward, the former president will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is set to engage with China's leader Xi.