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Japan's recently chosen leader, Sanae Takaichi, is set to undertake her primary foreign policy examination as she meets ex-President Trump for crucial talks in Tokyo.

The agenda of their summit is anticipated to revolve around trade and defense issues, representing a critical juncture for Japan's relationship with its influential ally.

A Historic Premiership and International Debut

Takaichi, who just became Japan's initial woman prime minister after winning the leadership of the ruling LDP, had her global introduction at the latest Asean meeting.

But, her upcoming meeting with the former president is regarded as the true challenge that will set the tone for future two-way cooperation.

Managing Internal and Global Challenges

The prime minister faces a potentially shaky political landscape, having formed a coalition that leaves her two seats away of a majority in the influential chamber of the Diet.

This means, her administration will depend on other lawmakers to approve legislation, adding a layer of complexity to her governance.

Shared Perspectives and Differing Policies

Takaichi shares the former president's suspicion of China's military activities in the Asia-Pacific, yet both countries have faced issues from his "America-first" economic approach.

Lately, Trump facilitated a truce agreement between Thailand and Cambodian authorities on the first leg of his Asia tour.

Military Expansion and Spending Pledges

Takaichi has expressed her determination to speed up Japan's military expansion, planning to raise military expenditure to two percent of GDP by the end of March.

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

Security Partnership and Strains

The country has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the United States, and intends to deploy locally made longer-range missiles.

However, the two-way security agreement remains a source of tension, with Trump earlier stating that the nation should contribute more for stationing US troops on its territory.

Trade Expectations and Talks

Not many anticipate major concessions on economic matters during the visit, particularly after recent duty adjustments offered some relief to the country's export sector.

Takaichi is expected to seek further relief by promising increased purchases of US goods, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and gas.

Individual Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The importance Trump places on personal rapport could benefit the PM's favor, given her strong ties with the late former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was among his favorite world leaders.

He was the first international figure to meet Trump after his election, and the pair built a strong bond over shared activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Implications

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

It will be succeeded by talks with the PM at the official residence, the very venue where Trump met with the former leader in 2019.

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