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Japan's newly elected leader, Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her primary diplomatic challenge as she sits down with former US President Donald Trump for high-stakes talks in Tokyo.

Attention of their summit is likely to center on economic and security issues, representing a critical juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its powerful ally.

A Historic Premiership and Global Introduction

Takaichi, who just assumed the role of Japan's first female prime minister after securing the top position of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, made her international introduction at the recent ASEAN summit.

But, her forthcoming talks with the former president is regarded as the real test that will establish the direction for coming bilateral cooperation.

Handling Internal and Global Challenges

Takaichi deals with a possibly shaky political landscape, having formed a partnership that puts her two seats short of a majority in the powerful chamber of the Diet.

Consequently, her administration will depend on opposition MPs to approve legislation, adding a element of complexity to her leadership.

Shared Views and Differing Policies

Takaichi shares the former president's suspicion of Chinese military presence in the region, but each nations have experienced challenges from his "US-first" economic policies.

Lately, the former president facilitated a truce agreement between Thailand and Cambodia authorities during the first stage of his Asian visit.

Defense Build-up and Spending Commitments

Takaichi has expressed her commitment to speed up Japan's military build-up, planning to raise defense expenditure to 2% of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This step aligns with a longstanding request from Trump and signifies the largest military buildup for the nation since the WWII.

Defense Cooperation and Strains

The country has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the United States, and plans to deploy locally made extended-range missiles.

However, the two-way defense agreement remains a point of strain, with Trump earlier stating that Japan should pay more for hosting US forces on its territory.

Economic Expectations and Talks

Not many anticipate major agreements on economic matters during the visit, especially after recent duty adjustments offered some ease to the country's export sector.

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

Personal Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link

The value the former president attributes to personal rapport could work in Takaichi's favor, given her strong ties with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was among Trump's favorite world leaders.

Abe was the first international figure to meet Trump after his victory, and the pair developed a strong relationship over shared activities such as the sport.

Upcoming Agenda and Regional Significance

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

It will be succeeded by talks with the PM at the state guest house, the very location where Trump held talks with the former leader in 2019.

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