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Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Takaichi, is preparing to face her primary foreign policy challenge as she engages with former US President Trump for crucial negotiations in Tokyo.

Attention of their meeting is expected to focus on trade and security matters, signaling a pivotal juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its powerful ally.

A Significant Leadership and International Debut

The new PM, who recently became Japan's first female prime minister after securing the leadership of the governing LDP, made her global introduction at the latest ASEAN summit.

But, her forthcoming talks with Trump is seen as the true challenge that will establish the direction for future two-way cooperation.

Handling Domestic and Global Challenges

Takaichi deals with a potentially unstable political situation, having established a coalition that puts her two seats away of a controlling number in the influential lower house of the Diet.

Consequently, her government will depend on opposition lawmakers to pass laws, introducing a element of difficulty to her leadership.

Common Perspectives and Differing Policies

Takaichi holds Trump's suspicion of Chinese military presence in the region, yet both nations have faced challenges from his "US-first" economic approach.

Recently, the former president oversaw a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodian authorities during the first stage of his Asia tour.

Military Build-up and Budget Commitments

The leader has expressed her commitment to accelerate Japan's military expansion, aiming to increase defense spending to two percent of GDP by the end of March.

This move matches a longstanding demand from the former US leader and signifies the biggest defense expansion for Japan since the Second World War.

Security Cooperation and Strains

Japan has also moved to obtain "retaliatory" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and intends to use locally made extended-range systems.

However, the bilateral security treaty remains a point of tension, with the former president previously suggesting that the nation should contribute more for stationing American troops on its territory.

Economic Outlook and Negotiations

Few anticipate significant agreements on trade matters this week, particularly after latest duty adjustments provided some relief to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is likely to pursue additional relief by promising greater acquisitions of US goods, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and natural gas.

Personal Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link

The importance Trump places on individual rapport could benefit Takaichi's advantage, given her close ties with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was among his favorite world leaders.

He was the initial foreign figure to meet Trump after his election, and the two built a close bond over mutual interests such as the sport.

Upcoming Agenda and International Implications

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

It will be succeeded by talks with the PM at the state guest house, the same location where he held talks with the former leader in previous years.

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