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The nation's newly elected leader, Sanae Takaichi, is set to face her first major diplomatic test as she engages with ex-President Donald Trump for high-stakes negotiations in Tokyo.

Attention of their meeting is anticipated to center on trade and security topics, signaling a key juncture for Tokyo's ties with its powerful partner.

The Notable Leadership and Global Introduction

Takaichi, who recently assumed the role of Japan's initial woman prime minister after winning the top position of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, made her global debut at the recent ASEAN meeting.

But, her forthcoming meeting with Trump is seen as the real challenge that will establish the direction for future bilateral relations.

Navigating Domestic and Global Challenges

Takaichi faces a potentially shaky political landscape, having established a coalition that leaves her a couple of votes short of a majority in the powerful lower house of parliament.

Consequently, her government will depend on other MPs to approve laws, adding a layer of difficulty to her governance.

Shared Perspectives and Differing Interests

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

Recently, Trump oversaw a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodia forces on the first leg of his Asian visit.

Defense Expansion and Budget Commitments

Takaichi has expressed her commitment to speed up Japan's defense build-up, planning to increase defense expenditure to two percent of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This move matches a long-held demand from the former US leader and represents the largest military expansion for the nation since the WWII.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

The country has also moved to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the United States, and plans to deploy domestically developed longer-range missiles.

However, the two-way security treaty is still a point of strain, with Trump earlier stating that Japan should contribute more for hosting American troops on its soil.

Economic Outlook and Negotiations

Not many anticipate major agreements on trade matters this week, particularly after latest tariff adjustments provided some ease to the country's economy.

The PM is likely to pursue additional benefits by promising increased purchases of American products, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Abe Link

The importance the former president places on personal rapport could work in Takaichi's favor, given her close relationship with assassinated former prime minister Abe, who was among his favorite world leaders.

He was the initial foreign figure to meet Trump after his victory, and the pair built a strong bond over mutual interests such as golf.

Forthcoming Schedule and International Implications

Trump's visit to the country will begin with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the royal residence in Tokyo.

It will be followed by discussions with the PM at the official residence, the same venue where Trump met with the former leader in previous years.

Afterward, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is scheduled to meet Chinese president Xi Jinping.