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Japan's freshly appointed prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is set to confront her first major diplomatic challenge as she engages with ex-President Trump for important negotiations in Tokyo.

Attention of their encounter is likely to center on economic and security topics, signaling a critical moment for Japan's ties with its powerful partner.

The Notable Leadership and Global Introduction

Takaichi, who just became Japan's initial woman prime minister after securing the top position of the governing LDP, had her international debut at the recent ASEAN meeting.

However, her upcoming talks with Trump is considered the true challenge that will set the tone for coming bilateral relations.

Handling Domestic and International Pressures

Takaichi confronts a possibly shaky political situation, having formed a partnership that leaves her a couple of votes short of a majority in the powerful chamber of parliament.

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

Shared Views and Differing Interests

Takaichi holds the former president's wariness of China's military activities in the region, yet each countries have experienced issues from his "US-first" economic approach.

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

Military Build-up and Spending Commitments

The leader has stated her commitment to speed up Japan's defense expansion, planning to raise military expenditure to 2% of GDP by the end of March.

This step aligns with a longstanding request from Trump and represents the largest military expansion for Japan since the Second World War.

Defense Cooperation and Strains

The country has also moved to obtain "counterstrike" capabilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the US, and intends to deploy domestically developed longer-range missiles.

But, the bilateral defense treaty is still a source of tension, with the former president previously stating that Japan should contribute more for hosting US troops on its soil.

Trade Outlook and Negotiations

Not many expect significant concessions on trade matters this week, especially after recent tariff adjustments offered a degree of ease to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is expected to seek additional relief by committing to increased acquisitions of US goods, including vehicles, soybeans, and natural gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Abe Link

The value Trump places on personal rapport could benefit the PM's favor, given her strong ties with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was among Trump's preferred world leaders.

Abe was the initial international figure to visit the then president-elect after his election, and the two developed a strong bond over mutual activities such as the sport.

Upcoming Schedule and International Significance

Trump's visit to the country will begin with a meeting with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

It will be succeeded by talks with Takaichi at the state guest house, the same location where he held talks with the former leader in 2019.

Subsequently, Trump will travel to South Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is set to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping.