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Japan's newly elected leader, Takaichi, is ready to undertake her primary foreign policy examination as she sits down with ex-President Trump for crucial discussions in the Japanese capital.

Attention of their summit is likely to center on trade and security topics, representing a critical moment for Japan's ties with its powerful ally.

A Notable Premiership and Global Debut

Takaichi, who recently became Japan's first female leader after winning the leadership of the ruling LDP, made her global introduction at the latest Asean meeting.

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

Managing Internal and International Pressures

The prime minister deals with a possibly shaky political situation, having formed a coalition that leaves her two seats away of a controlling number in the influential chamber of parliament.

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

Common Perspectives and Diverging Interests

Takaichi holds the former president's suspicion of China's defense activities in the Asia-Pacific, yet each nations have faced issues from Trump's "America-first" economic approach.

Lately, Trump facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodia forces during the first leg of his Asia tour.

Military Build-up and Spending Commitments

The leader has expressed her determination to speed up Japan's defense build-up, aiming to raise military spending to 2% of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This move matches a longstanding demand from Trump and represents the largest defense buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Defense Cooperation and Tensions

The country has also moved to acquire "counterstrike" abilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and plans to deploy locally made longer-range missiles.

But, the two-way defense treaty remains a point of tension, with Trump earlier stating that Japan should contribute more for hosting American forces on its soil.

Trade Outlook and Negotiations

Few anticipate major agreements on economic issues during the visit, particularly after latest duty changes provided some ease to the country's economy.

Takaichi is likely to seek additional benefits by committing to greater purchases of American products, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Abe Connection

The value the former president attributes to individual rapport could work in Takaichi's favor, given her strong relationship with assassinated former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was one of his favorite international figures.

He was the initial foreign figure to visit the then president-elect after his victory, and the two built a strong relationship over mutual activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Agenda and International Implications

The former president's trip to Japan will start with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

This will be followed by talks with the PM at the official residence, the very location where Trump met with the former leader in 2019.

Afterward, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is set to meet Chinese president Xi.