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Japan's newly elected leader, Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her first major diplomatic challenge as she meets ex-President Donald Trump for important talks in the Japanese capital.

Attention of their meeting is likely to focus on economic and defense issues, representing a critical moment for Japan's relationship with its influential partner.

A Historic Leadership and Global Introduction

Takaichi, who recently assumed the role of Japan's initial woman leader after winning the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had her global introduction at the recent ASEAN summit.

But, her upcoming talks with the former president is considered the true test that will set the tone for future bilateral relations.

Navigating Internal and International Pressures

Takaichi deals with a possibly shaky political landscape, having formed a partnership that leaves her two seats away of a majority in the influential chamber of the Diet.

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

Shared Views and Differing Interests

Takaichi shares the former president's wariness of Chinese military activities in the Asia-Pacific, but both countries have experienced issues from his "America-first" trade approach.

Lately, Trump facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodian authorities during the first stage of his Asian visit.

Defense Expansion and Spending Commitments

The leader has stated her determination to speed up Japan's defense expansion, aiming to increase defense expenditure to two percent of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

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

Security Cooperation and Tensions

Japan has also taken steps to obtain "counterstrike" abilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and plans to use locally made extended-range missiles.

However, the bilateral security agreement is still a point of strain, with the former president earlier stating that the nation should contribute more for hosting American forces on its territory.

Economic Outlook and Talks

Few anticipate significant concessions on economic matters this week, particularly after latest duty changes provided a degree of ease to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is expected to pursue further relief by promising greater purchases of American goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The value Trump places on individual chemistry could benefit Takaichi's advantage, given her strong relationship with the late ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite world leaders.

He was the initial foreign leader to meet the then president-elect after his victory, and the two developed a strong relationship over mutual activities such as golf.

Upcoming Agenda and Regional Significance

Trump's trip to Japan will begin with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the royal residence in the capital.

This will be succeeded by discussions with Takaichi at the official residence, the same location where Trump held talks with Abe in previous years.

Subsequently, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the APEC summit, where he is set to engage with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.