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The nation's freshly appointed prime minister, Takaichi, is preparing to confront her initial significant diplomatic challenge as she engages with former US President Trump for important discussions in the Japanese capital.

The agenda of their encounter is anticipated to focus on economic and security issues, signaling a key moment for Japan's ties with its powerful ally.

A Historic Leadership and Global Introduction

Takaichi, who recently became Japan's initial woman leader after securing the leadership of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, had her global debut at the latest Asean summit.

But, her forthcoming talks with Trump is regarded as the true test that will set the tone for future bilateral relations.

Navigating Domestic and Global Pressures

Takaichi confronts a possibly shaky political landscape, having formed a coalition that leaves her two seats away of a majority in the powerful lower house of parliament.

This means, her government will depend on other MPs to pass legislation, introducing a layer of difficulty to her governance.

Common Perspectives and Differing Interests

Takaichi holds the former president's wariness of Chinese defense presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet each countries have faced challenges from Trump's "America-first" economic policies.

Lately, Trump oversaw a truce deal between Thai and Cambodian forces on the initial stage of his Asian tour.

Defense Build-up and Spending Pledges

Takaichi has stated her determination to speed up Japan's military build-up, aiming to increase military spending to 2% of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This step matches a long-held demand from the former US leader and represents the largest military expansion for Japan since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

The country has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" abilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the US, and intends to deploy domestically developed extended-range missiles.

But, the two-way security agreement remains a point of tension, with Trump earlier suggesting that the nation should pay more for hosting American forces on its territory.

Trade Outlook and Talks

Few anticipate major concessions on trade issues this week, especially after latest tariff changes offered some ease to the country's economy.

The PM is likely to seek additional relief by promising increased purchases of American goods, including vehicles, soybeans, and natural gas.

Individual Rapport and the Abe Connection

The value Trump places on individual chemistry could benefit Takaichi's advantage, given her strong relationship with the late former prime minister Abe, who was among Trump's preferred world leaders.

He was the first international leader to meet Trump after his election, and the pair developed a strong relationship over mutual activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Schedule and International Significance

Trump's visit to Japan will start with a meeting with Emperor Naruhito at the royal residence in Tokyo.

This will be succeeded by discussions with the PM at the state guest house, the same location where Trump met with the former leader in 2019.

Afterward, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the Apec summit, where he is scheduled to engage with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.