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The nation's freshly appointed prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to confront her initial significant foreign policy challenge as she sits down with former US President Donald Trump for crucial talks in Tokyo.

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

A Historic Leadership and Global Debut

Takaichi, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female prime minister after securing the top position of the ruling LDP, had her global introduction at the latest Asean summit.

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

Managing Domestic and International Pressures

The prime minister faces a possibly shaky political situation, having established a partnership that leaves her a couple of votes short of a controlling number in the influential chamber of parliament.

This means, her administration will rely on other MPs to pass legislation, adding a element of complexity to her governance.

Common Perspectives and Differing Policies

She shares Trump's suspicion of Chinese military presence in the region, yet both countries have faced issues from Trump's "US-first" economic approach.

Recently, Trump facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia forces during the first stage of his Asian tour.

Military Expansion and Spending Commitments

The leader has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, planning to increase defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This step aligns with a longstanding demand from the former US leader and signifies the largest military buildup for Japan since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

Japan has also taken steps to obtain "counterstrike" abilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the United States, and plans to deploy locally made extended-range systems.

But, the bilateral defense agreement is still a point of tension, with the former president earlier stating that the nation should pay more for hosting US troops on its territory.

Trade Outlook and Negotiations

Few expect significant agreements on economic issues during the visit, particularly after recent tariff changes offered a degree of ease to Japan's economy.

The PM is expected to pursue additional relief by committing to greater acquisitions of American products, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Individual Rapport and the Abe Connection

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

He was the initial international figure to visit Trump after his victory, and the two built a close bond over mutual activities such as golf.

Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Significance

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

It will be followed by discussions with the PM at the state guest house, the same venue where he met with Abe in 2019.

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