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Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Takaichi, is set to face her initial significant diplomatic challenge as she sits down with former US President Trump for crucial negotiations in the Japanese capital.

The focus of their encounter is expected to focus on economic and security matters, representing a key juncture for Japan's ties with its influential ally.

A Notable Premiership and Global Introduction

The new PM, who just became Japan's initial woman prime minister after securing the top position of the ruling LDP, made her global debut at the latest ASEAN summit.

However, her forthcoming talks with the former president is considered the true challenge that will set the tone for future two-way relations.

Managing Internal and International Pressures

Takaichi faces a possibly shaky government landscape, having formed a coalition that leaves her two seats short of a controlling number in the influential lower house of the Diet.

This means, her administration will depend on other MPs to approve legislation, adding a layer of complexity to her governance.

Shared Views and Diverging Policies

She holds Trump's suspicion of Chinese military activities in the region, but both countries have experienced challenges from Trump's "America-first" trade approach.

Recently, the former president facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodian forces on the first stage of his Asia tour.

Defense Expansion and Spending Commitments

The leader has stated her determination to accelerate Japan's military build-up, aiming to raise military expenditure to two percent of GDP by the end of March.

This step aligns with a long-held request from the former US leader and signifies the biggest defense buildup for the nation since the WWII.

Defense Partnership and Strains

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

But, the two-way defense agreement is still a source of tension, with Trump earlier stating that Japan should pay more for hosting US troops on its soil.

Economic Outlook and Talks

Few expect significant concessions on trade matters during the visit, especially after recent tariff changes provided some relief to the country's economy.

Takaichi is expected to pursue further relief by committing to greater purchases of US products, including vehicles, soybeans, and gas.

Individual Rapport and the Abe Connection

The value Trump places on personal chemistry could benefit the PM's favor, given her strong ties with the late former prime minister Abe, who was among Trump's preferred world leaders.

Abe was the first international leader to meet the then president-elect after his election, and the pair built a close relationship over mutual activities such as golf.

Upcoming Schedule and Regional Implications

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

It will be succeeded by talks with the PM at the state guest house, the same venue where Trump held talks with the former leader in 2019.

Subsequently, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is scheduled to engage with China's president Xi Jinping.