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The nation's recently chosen leader, Takaichi, is preparing to face her initial significant diplomatic test as she sits down with former US President Trump for crucial negotiations in Tokyo.

Attention of their meeting is expected to revolve around economic and defense matters, signaling a pivotal juncture for Tokyo's ties with its powerful partner.

The Historic Premiership and International Introduction

The new PM, who recently became Japan's first female leader after securing the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had her international introduction at the recent ASEAN meeting.

But, her upcoming talks with Trump is seen as the true challenge that will establish the direction for coming bilateral relations.

Handling Internal and Global Pressures

Takaichi confronts a possibly shaky political landscape, having formed a coalition that puts her a couple of votes short of a controlling number in the influential chamber of the Diet.

This means, her administration will rely on other lawmakers to pass legislation, introducing a element of complexity to her leadership.

Common Perspectives and Differing Interests

Takaichi holds the former president's wariness of Chinese military activities in the Asia-Pacific, but both nations have experienced issues from his "US-first" trade policies.

Lately, the former president oversaw a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia authorities during the initial leg of his Asian tour.

Defense Expansion and Budget Pledges

Takaichi has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, planning to raise defense spending to 2% of GDP by the end of March.

This move aligns with a longstanding demand from Trump and represents the biggest defense buildup for Japan since the Second World War.

Security Partnership and Strains

The country has also moved to obtain "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise missiles from the US, and intends to deploy domestically developed longer-range systems.

However, the two-way security treaty remains a source of strain, with the former president earlier suggesting that Japan should pay more for stationing American forces on its soil.

Trade Expectations and Talks

Few anticipate major concessions on trade issues this week, especially after recent tariff adjustments offered some relief to the country's economy.

The PM is expected to seek further benefits by promising greater purchases of US products, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The value the former president places on individual rapport could work in Takaichi's favor, given her close relationship with the late ex-leader Abe, who was among Trump's favorite international figures.

He was the initial foreign figure to visit Trump after his victory, and the two built a close bond over shared interests such as the sport.

Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Implications

Trump's visit to Japan will begin with a meeting with the Emperor at the royal residence in the capital.

It will be followed by talks with Takaichi at the state guest house, the very location where he met with Abe in previous years.

Afterward, the former president will travel to South Korea for the APEC summit, where he is set to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping.