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Japan's newly elected leader, Sanae Takaichi, is set to undertake her primary diplomatic examination as she meets former US President Donald Trump for important discussions in the Japanese capital.

The focus of their summit is anticipated to center on economic and security issues, signaling a key moment for Tokyo's relationship with its powerful partner.

The Significant Premiership and International Debut

Takaichi, who just assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after securing the leadership of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, had her global introduction at the latest ASEAN meeting.

But, her forthcoming talks with Trump is seen as the real test that will establish the direction for coming two-way cooperation.

Navigating Domestic and International Challenges

Takaichi deals with a possibly unstable government landscape, having formed a partnership that puts her two seats short of a controlling number in the powerful lower house of the Diet.

This means, her administration will depend on opposition lawmakers to pass laws, adding a layer of complexity to her leadership.

Common Perspectives and Diverging Interests

Takaichi shares Trump's wariness of China's defense presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet both nations have experienced challenges from Trump's "US-first" trade approach.

Recently, Trump facilitated a truce agreement between Thai and Cambodia forces on the initial stage of his Asian tour.

Defense Expansion and Budget Pledges

The leader has stated her determination to speed up Japan's defense build-up, planning to raise defense expenditure to 2% of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This step aligns with a longstanding demand from Trump and signifies the largest military expansion for the nation since the Second World War.

Defense Cooperation and Strains

The country has also moved to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the US, and plans to deploy locally made longer-range systems.

However, the two-way security agreement is still a point of strain, with the former president previously suggesting that Japan should contribute more for hosting US troops on its territory.

Economic Outlook and Talks

Not many anticipate significant agreements on trade issues this week, especially after recent duty changes provided some relief to the country's export sector.

The PM is likely to pursue additional benefits by promising greater acquisitions of US goods, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Rapport and the Abe Link

The value Trump attributes to personal rapport could benefit the PM's favor, given her strong ties with assassinated former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was among his favorite international figures.

Abe was the initial international figure to visit Trump after his victory, and the pair developed a strong bond over mutual activities such as the sport.

Upcoming Schedule and Regional Significance

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

This will be succeeded by discussions with the PM at the state guest house, the very location where Trump held talks with Abe in previous years.

Subsequently, the former president will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is set to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping.