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The nation's freshly appointed leader, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her initial significant diplomatic challenge as she meets ex-President Trump for high-stakes negotiations in Tokyo.

Attention of their summit is anticipated to revolve around economic and security topics, marking a pivotal moment for Japan's ties with its powerful ally.

A Notable Premiership and Global Introduction

Takaichi, who just assumed the role of Japan's initial woman prime minister after securing the top position of the ruling LDP, had her global debut at the latest ASEAN summit.

But, her upcoming talks with the former president is regarded as the real test that will establish the direction for future two-way relations.

Handling Domestic and International Pressures

The prime minister deals with a potentially shaky political situation, having established a partnership that puts her two seats short of a controlling number in the powerful lower house of the Diet.

Consequently, her administration will rely on opposition MPs to approve legislation, introducing a element of complexity to her governance.

Shared Perspectives and Differing Interests

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of China's military activities in the region, but both countries have experienced issues from Trump's "America-first" trade policies.

Lately, Trump oversaw a truce deal between Thai and Cambodian authorities on the initial leg of his Asian visit.

Defense Build-up and Spending Pledges

The leader has expressed her determination to speed up Japan's military expansion, planning to raise defense spending to two percent of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This step matches a long-held demand from the former US leader and signifies the largest defense buildup for Japan since the Second World War.

Defense Cooperation and Strains

The country has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" abilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and plans to use domestically developed extended-range missiles.

But, the two-way defense treaty remains a source of strain, with Trump previously suggesting that the nation should contribute more for hosting American troops on its soil.

Trade Expectations and Negotiations

Not many anticipate significant agreements on economic matters during the visit, especially after latest duty changes offered some relief to the country's economy.

The PM is expected to pursue further relief by promising increased purchases of American products, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Link

The importance the former president places on individual rapport could work in Takaichi's advantage, given her close ties with the late ex-leader Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite world leaders.

Abe was the first international figure to visit the then president-elect after his election, and the two developed a strong relationship over shared activities such as the sport.

Upcoming Agenda and Regional Significance

Trump's trip to Japan will start with a meeting with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

It will be succeeded by talks with Takaichi at the state guest house, the same location where Trump met with Abe in previous years.

Subsequently, Trump will travel to South Korea for the APEC summit, where he is set to engage with China's leader Xi Jinping.