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Japan's newly elected leader, Takaichi, is set to confront her initial significant foreign policy test as she engages with ex-President Trump for high-stakes talks in the Japanese capital.

The agenda of their meeting is expected to center on trade and defense topics, signaling a pivotal juncture for Tokyo's ties with its powerful ally.

A Notable Leadership and International Debut

Takaichi, who just became Japan's first female prime minister after securing the leadership of the ruling LDP, had her global introduction at the recent ASEAN meeting.

However, her forthcoming talks with the former president is regarded as the real challenge that will establish the direction for coming two-way relations.

Navigating Domestic and Global Pressures

Takaichi faces a possibly shaky political landscape, having formed a coalition that puts her a couple of votes away of a controlling number in the powerful chamber of parliament.

This means, her government will rely on other lawmakers to approve legislation, adding a layer of complexity to her governance.

Common Perspectives and Differing Policies

She holds the former president's suspicion of Chinese military activities in the Asia-Pacific, yet both nations have faced challenges from Trump's "America-first" economic policies.

Recently, Trump oversaw a truce deal between Thailand and Cambodia authorities on the first stage of his Asia visit.

Military Expansion and Spending Commitments

Takaichi has expressed her commitment to accelerate Japan's military expansion, planning to increase military expenditure to two percent of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This step matches a long-held demand from the former US leader and signifies the biggest defense expansion for the nation since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

The country has also taken steps to obtain "retaliatory" abilities, including cruise missiles from the United States, and plans to deploy locally made longer-range missiles.

But, the two-way security treaty is still a source of tension, with Trump earlier stating that the nation should contribute more for stationing US forces on its soil.

Trade Outlook and Negotiations

Not many anticipate significant concessions on trade issues during the visit, especially after latest tariff changes provided a degree of ease to Japan's export sector.

The PM is likely to pursue additional relief by committing to greater acquisitions of US goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Rapport and the Abe Connection

The value Trump attributes to personal chemistry could benefit Takaichi's advantage, given her strong relationship with the late ex-leader Abe, who was among Trump's favorite world leaders.

He was the initial foreign leader to visit the then president-elect after his election, and the pair developed a close relationship over shared interests such as golf.

Upcoming Schedule and Regional Significance

The former president's visit to the country will start with a audience with the Emperor at the royal residence in Tokyo.

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

Subsequently, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the APEC summit, where he is scheduled to engage with China's president Xi Jinping.