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Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Takaichi, is set to confront her primary foreign policy examination as she engages with ex-President Donald Trump for important talks in the Japanese capital.

The agenda of their encounter is anticipated to focus on economic and defense issues, representing a critical juncture for Japan's relationship with its influential partner.

The Historic Premiership and International Introduction

The new PM, who just assumed the role of Japan's initial woman leader after securing the top position of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, made her global debut at the latest ASEAN summit.

But, her forthcoming meeting with Trump is considered the real challenge that will establish the direction for coming bilateral cooperation.

Navigating Internal and Global Challenges

The prime minister faces a possibly shaky political landscape, having formed a partnership that puts her a couple of votes away of a majority in the powerful chamber of parliament.

This means, her administration will rely on opposition MPs to approve laws, introducing a layer of complexity to her leadership.

Shared Perspectives and Differing Policies

She shares the former president's suspicion of China's military presence in the region, yet each countries have experienced issues from Trump's "US-first" economic policies.

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

Defense Expansion and Spending Commitments

The leader has stated her commitment to speed up Japan's military expansion, aiming to increase defense spending to two percent of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This move matches a long-held demand from Trump and signifies the biggest defense expansion for Japan since the Second World War.

Security Partnership and Tensions

The country has also moved to acquire "counterstrike" abilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and intends to deploy domestically developed extended-range systems.

However, the two-way defense treaty remains a source of tension, with Trump earlier suggesting that the nation should contribute more for hosting US troops on its territory.

Economic Outlook and Talks

Not many anticipate major concessions on economic matters during the visit, especially after latest tariff changes provided a degree of relief to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is expected to pursue additional relief by promising increased purchases of US products, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and natural gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Abe Connection

The value Trump places on personal rapport could work in the PM's favor, given her strong relationship with the late ex-leader Abe, who was among Trump's favorite world leaders.

He was the first international figure to visit Trump after his election, and the two developed a close bond over mutual interests such as the sport.

Upcoming Schedule and International Significance

The former president's trip to the country will start with a meeting with Emperor Naruhito at the royal residence in the capital.

It will be followed by discussions with Takaichi at the official residence, the same location where he met with Abe in previous years.

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