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The nation's newly elected leader, Sanae Takaichi, is set to confront her first major diplomatic examination as she meets ex-President Donald Trump for crucial discussions in the Japanese capital.

Attention of their summit is expected to revolve around economic and security issues, representing a key juncture for Japan's ties with its powerful ally.

A Significant Leadership and Global Introduction

Takaichi, who just assumed the role of Japan's first female prime minister after winning the top position of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, had her global debut at the latest ASEAN summit.

However, her forthcoming meeting with the former president is regarded as the real test that will set the tone for coming two-way cooperation.

Handling Internal and Global Challenges

The prime minister faces a possibly unstable political landscape, having formed a coalition that leaves her two seats short of a controlling number in the powerful lower house of parliament.

This means, her government will rely on other lawmakers to approve laws, adding a layer of difficulty to her leadership.

Common Views and Differing Policies

Takaichi holds the former president's wariness of China's defense presence in the Asia-Pacific, but each nations have experienced challenges from his "US-first" trade approach.

Lately, the former president facilitated a ceasefire deal between Thai and Cambodian forces on the initial stage of his Asia tour.

Defense Expansion and Spending Pledges

Takaichi has expressed her determination to speed up Japan's military build-up, aiming to raise military spending to two percent of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This step matches a longstanding demand from Trump and signifies the biggest defense buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Defense Partnership and Strains

Japan has also taken steps to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including cruise missiles from the United States, and plans to use locally made extended-range missiles.

However, the two-way security agreement is still a point of tension, with Trump earlier stating that the nation should pay more for stationing US forces on its territory.

Economic Outlook and Talks

Few anticipate major concessions on economic matters this week, particularly after recent duty adjustments offered a degree of relief to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is likely to seek additional relief by promising greater acquisitions of American goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Individual Rapport and the Abe Link

The importance Trump attributes to personal chemistry could work in the PM's advantage, given her strong relationship with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of his favorite international figures.

He was the initial international figure to visit Trump after his victory, and the pair developed a close relationship over shared activities such as golf.

Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Significance

The former president's visit to Japan will begin with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

This will be followed by discussions with Takaichi at the state guest house, the same venue where Trump held talks with the former leader in 2019.

Subsequently, Trump will travel to the Republic of Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is set to meet Chinese leader Xi.