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Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Takaichi, is ready to face her primary diplomatic test as she engages with ex-President Donald Trump for crucial discussions in the Japanese capital.

The focus of their summit is anticipated to revolve around trade and security issues, representing a critical juncture for Tokyo's ties with its influential partner.

A Historic Premiership and Global Debut

Takaichi, who recently became Japan's first female leader after securing the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had her global introduction at the latest Asean summit.

However, her forthcoming meeting with the former president is considered the real test that will establish the direction for future two-way cooperation.

Navigating Domestic and International Challenges

Takaichi faces a potentially unstable political landscape, having established a partnership that leaves her two seats short of a controlling number in the influential chamber of the Diet.

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

Shared Views and Diverging Policies

She holds the former president's suspicion of China's military presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet both nations have faced issues from Trump's "US-first" economic approach.

Lately, the former president oversaw a ceasefire deal between Thailand and Cambodia authorities during the first stage of his Asian tour.

Military Expansion and Budget Commitments

Takaichi has expressed her determination to speed up Japan's military expansion, planning to increase military spending to two percent of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This move aligns with a long-held demand from Trump and represents the biggest defense buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Defense Cooperation and Strains

The country has also taken steps to acquire "retaliatory" abilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the United States, and plans to deploy domestically developed extended-range systems.

But, the two-way security treaty is still a source of tension, with the former president previously stating that Japan should pay more for stationing American troops on its soil.

Economic Expectations and Negotiations

Not many expect major agreements on trade issues this week, particularly after latest tariff adjustments offered some ease to Japan's economy.

The PM is expected to seek additional benefits by committing to increased acquisitions of US products, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Abe Link

The value Trump places on individual rapport could work in the PM's advantage, given her close relationship with assassinated former prime minister Abe, who was among his preferred international figures.

He was the initial foreign leader to meet the then president-elect after his election, and the pair developed a strong bond over mutual activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Agenda and Regional Implications

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

It will be succeeded by talks with the PM at the official residence, the same venue where he held talks with Abe in previous years.

Subsequently, Trump will travel to the Republic of Korea for the APEC summit, where he is scheduled to engage with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.