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The nation's freshly appointed prime minister, Takaichi, is ready to undertake her primary diplomatic examination as she meets former US President Trump for important negotiations in Tokyo.

The focus of their summit is anticipated to center on trade and defense issues, representing a critical moment for Tokyo's ties with its powerful partner.

The Historic Leadership and Global Debut

The new PM, who recently became Japan's first female prime minister after winning the top position of the ruling LDP, made her global introduction at the recent Asean meeting.

But, her upcoming talks with the former president is regarded as the real challenge that will set the tone for future bilateral relations.

Handling Internal and International Challenges

Takaichi deals with a possibly shaky government situation, having formed a coalition that puts her two seats short of a controlling number in the powerful chamber of the Diet.

Consequently, her administration will depend on opposition MPs to approve laws, adding a layer of complexity to her leadership.

Common Perspectives and Diverging Interests

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of Chinese defense presence in the region, yet each countries have faced challenges from his "US-first" economic policies.

Lately, the former president facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodian authorities during the first stage of his Asian tour.

Military Expansion and Budget Pledges

Takaichi has expressed her commitment to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, aiming to raise military spending to 2% of GDP by the end of March.

This step matches a long-held request from Trump and represents the biggest military expansion for the nation since the Second World War.

Defense Cooperation and Strains

Japan has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise missiles from the United States, and plans to use domestically developed longer-range missiles.

But, the bilateral defense agreement remains a point of tension, with the former president earlier stating that Japan should pay more for stationing American troops on its soil.

Trade Expectations and Negotiations

Few anticipate major agreements on trade issues this week, especially after latest tariff changes offered a degree of ease to the country's economy.

The PM is expected to pursue further benefits by promising increased acquisitions of American goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Individual Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The value the former president places on personal chemistry could benefit the PM's advantage, given her close relationship with the late former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was one of his favorite international figures.

Abe was the first international figure to meet Trump after his election, and the two built a strong relationship over mutual interests such as golf.

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 followed by talks with the PM at the state guest house, the same venue where he met with Abe in 2019.

Afterward, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is scheduled to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping.