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The nation's recently chosen leader, Takaichi, is preparing to face her primary foreign policy challenge as she sits down with ex-President Donald Trump for important negotiations in Tokyo.

The focus of their meeting is anticipated to revolve around trade and security issues, marking a critical juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its powerful ally.

A Historic Leadership and Global Introduction

The new PM, who recently became Japan's first female prime minister after winning the top position of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, had her global debut at the recent Asean summit.

But, her forthcoming talks with Trump is seen as the true challenge that will establish the direction for coming bilateral relations.

Handling Domestic and Global Challenges

Takaichi confronts a potentially shaky political landscape, having formed a partnership that leaves her two seats short of a controlling number in the influential lower house of the Diet.

This means, her government will depend on opposition lawmakers to pass legislation, adding a layer of complexity to her governance.

Shared Perspectives and Differing Interests

Takaichi holds the former president's wariness of Chinese military presence in the Asia-Pacific, but both nations have experienced issues from his "America-first" economic policies.

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

Military Expansion and Budget Pledges

The leader has stated her determination to accelerate Japan's defense expansion, planning to increase military expenditure to two percent of GDP by the end of March.

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

Defense Partnership and Tensions

Japan has also moved to obtain "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and intends to deploy locally made extended-range missiles.

However, the bilateral security agreement remains a source of tension, with Trump previously suggesting that the nation should pay more for stationing American forces on its soil.

Economic Outlook and Talks

Not many expect major agreements on economic matters during the visit, especially after recent duty adjustments provided a degree of relief to the country's export sector.

Takaichi is likely to pursue additional benefits by committing to increased acquisitions of US goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Abe Connection

The value Trump attributes to personal rapport could work in Takaichi's advantage, given her strong relationship with assassinated former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was one of his preferred international figures.

He was the first international leader to visit the then president-elect after his victory, and the two developed a strong bond over mutual activities such as golf.

Upcoming Schedule and International Significance

Trump's trip to the country will start with a audience with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

It will be followed by talks with Takaichi at the state guest house, the very location where he met with Abe in previous years.

Afterward, the former president will travel to South Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is set to meet China's leader Xi.