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The nation's recently chosen leader, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to face her initial significant diplomatic examination as she sits down with former US President Trump for crucial talks in the Japanese capital.

Attention of their meeting is anticipated to focus on economic and defense matters, marking a critical juncture for Japan's relationship with its powerful ally.

A Significant Leadership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after securing the leadership of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, had her international debut at the latest ASEAN meeting.

But, her upcoming meeting with Trump is seen as the real test that will establish the direction for future two-way relations.

Navigating Internal and Global Pressures

The prime minister faces a possibly unstable political landscape, having formed a coalition that leaves her a couple of votes away of a majority in the influential chamber of parliament.

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

Common Views and Diverging Policies

Takaichi holds Trump's suspicion of China's defense activities in the Asia-Pacific, yet each countries have faced challenges from Trump's "America-first" trade policies.

Recently, Trump facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia authorities on the initial leg of his Asia visit.

Defense Build-up and Budget Commitments

Takaichi has stated her commitment to speed up Japan's defense build-up, planning to increase military spending to two percent of GDP by the end of March.

This step matches a long-held request from Trump and represents the largest military expansion for Japan since the WWII.

Defense Partnership and Strains

Japan has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the United States, and intends to use domestically developed extended-range missiles.

However, the bilateral defense treaty remains a source of tension, with Trump earlier suggesting that the nation should pay more for stationing American forces on its territory.

Trade Expectations and Talks

Not many anticipate significant agreements on trade issues during the visit, particularly after recent duty adjustments provided a degree of relief to the country's export sector.

Takaichi is likely to pursue further benefits by committing to increased purchases of American products, including vehicles, soybeans, and gas.

Individual Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link

The importance Trump attributes to personal chemistry could benefit the PM's favor, given her strong relationship with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was one of his preferred world leaders.

Abe was the initial foreign figure to meet Trump after his victory, and the pair developed a close bond over mutual activities such as the sport.

Upcoming Agenda and Regional Significance

The former president's trip to Japan will begin with a meeting with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

This will be followed by talks with the PM at the official residence, the same location where he held talks with the former leader in 2019.

Subsequently, the former president will travel to the Republic of Korea for the APEC summit, where he is set to meet Chinese president Xi.