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Japan's newly elected leader, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her first major foreign policy challenge as she sits down with former US President Donald Trump for crucial discussions in Tokyo.

The agenda of their encounter is likely to center on trade and security matters, representing a pivotal moment for Japan's ties with its powerful partner.

The Significant Premiership and International Debut

The new PM, who just became Japan's initial woman prime minister after winning the leadership of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, had her global introduction at the latest Asean meeting.

But, her upcoming talks with the former president is considered the true challenge that will set the tone for coming bilateral cooperation.

Navigating Internal and Global Pressures

Takaichi deals with a possibly unstable political situation, having formed a partnership that puts her two seats short of a majority in the influential lower house of parliament.

Consequently, her government will depend on other lawmakers to approve laws, adding a element of complexity to her governance.

Common Views and Differing Interests

Takaichi shares Trump's wariness of Chinese military presence in the region, yet each nations have faced challenges from Trump's "US-first" trade approach.

Lately, Trump facilitated a ceasefire deal between Thailand and Cambodia authorities on the initial leg of his Asian visit.

Military Build-up and Spending Pledges

Takaichi has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, planning to raise military expenditure to 2% of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This step aligns with a longstanding request from Trump and signifies the largest defense expansion for Japan since the Second World War.

Security Partnership and Strains

Japan has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the US, and intends to deploy locally made extended-range systems.

However, the two-way defense treaty remains a source of strain, with the former president previously suggesting that the nation should contribute more for hosting US forces on its territory.

Trade Expectations and Negotiations

Few anticipate major concessions on trade matters this week, especially after recent duty changes provided some relief to the country's economy.

Takaichi is expected to pursue further benefits by committing to greater acquisitions of American products, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Rapport and the Abe Connection

The value the former president places on individual chemistry could benefit Takaichi's advantage, given her strong ties with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was one of Trump's preferred international figures.

He was the first international leader to meet Trump after his election, and the pair developed a strong relationship over mutual activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Agenda and Regional Implications

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

This will be succeeded by talks with the PM at the state guest house, the very location where Trump met with the former leader in 2019.

Afterward, Trump will travel to South Korea for the APEC summit, where he is set to meet Chinese president Xi Jinping.