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Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Takaichi, is set to confront her initial significant foreign policy challenge as she meets former US President Trump for high-stakes negotiations in Tokyo.

Attention of their meeting is expected to focus on economic and security issues, representing a pivotal moment for Tokyo's relationship with its influential partner.

The Notable Premiership and International Debut

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

But, her upcoming talks with the former president is regarded as the real challenge that will set the tone for future two-way relations.

Managing Domestic and Global Pressures

Takaichi confronts a potentially shaky political landscape, having formed a partnership that puts her a couple of votes away of a controlling number in the powerful chamber of the Diet.

This means, her government will depend on opposition lawmakers to pass legislation, introducing a element of complexity to her governance.

Common Perspectives and Diverging Policies

Takaichi shares the former president's wariness of China's defense activities in the region, yet each countries have experienced challenges from his "US-first" trade policies.

Lately, Trump facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia forces on the first leg of his Asia visit.

Defense Expansion and Budget Pledges

Takaichi has stated her determination to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, aiming to raise military spending to two percent of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This step aligns with a long-held demand from Trump and represents the largest defense buildup for the nation since the WWII.

Defense Cooperation and Strains

Japan has also moved to acquire "counterstrike" abilities, including cruise missiles from the United States, and intends to use domestically developed extended-range systems.

However, the bilateral security treaty is still a point of tension, with the former president previously stating that the nation should contribute more for hosting US forces on its territory.

Economic Outlook and Negotiations

Not many anticipate significant concessions on trade issues this week, especially after latest tariff adjustments provided some relief to Japan's export sector.

Takaichi is likely to seek further benefits by committing to increased acquisitions of US products, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and natural gas.

Personal Rapport and the Abe Connection

The value the former president places on personal chemistry could benefit the PM's advantage, given her strong ties with the late ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of his favorite international figures.

Abe was the first foreign figure to meet the then president-elect after his victory, and the two built a strong bond over mutual interests such as golf.

Forthcoming Agenda and Regional Significance

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

This will be followed by discussions with Takaichi at the state guest house, the same venue where he met with the former leader in 2019.

Afterward, the former president will travel to the Republic of Korea for the APEC summit, where he is scheduled to engage with Chinese president Xi.