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Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Takaichi, is preparing to confront her initial significant diplomatic examination as she sits down with former US President Donald Trump for crucial talks in the Japanese capital.

The focus of their encounter is anticipated to center on trade and defense issues, representing a critical juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its influential ally.

The Notable Leadership and Global Introduction

The new PM, who just became Japan's initial woman leader after winning the top position of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, made her international introduction at the latest ASEAN summit.

But, her forthcoming meeting with the former president is considered the real test that will set the tone for future bilateral cooperation.

Handling Domestic and Global Challenges

The prime minister deals with a potentially unstable government landscape, having formed a partnership that leaves her a couple of votes away of a controlling number in the influential lower house of parliament.

This means, her administration will depend on opposition MPs to pass laws, adding a layer of difficulty to her governance.

Shared Perspectives and Diverging Interests

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of China's military presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet both countries have faced challenges from Trump's "America-first" economic approach.

Lately, Trump facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodian authorities on the first stage of his Asia visit.

Military Expansion and Budget Pledges

Takaichi has stated her commitment to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, aiming to raise defense spending to two percent of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This step aligns with a longstanding demand from the former US leader and signifies the biggest defense buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Security Partnership and Strains

The country has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the US, and plans to deploy locally made extended-range systems.

However, the bilateral defense treaty remains a point of strain, with Trump previously suggesting that the nation should contribute more for hosting American forces on its soil.

Economic Outlook and Negotiations

Not many expect significant concessions on economic issues during the visit, especially after latest duty changes provided a degree of relief to the country's export sector.

Takaichi is likely to pursue additional relief by committing to greater purchases of US goods, including vehicles, soybeans, and gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Link

The value Trump attributes to personal chemistry could work in the PM's advantage, given her strong relationship with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of his favorite international figures.

Abe was the initial international figure to meet Trump after his victory, and the pair built a strong bond over mutual activities such as golf.

Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Significance

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

This will be succeeded by talks with Takaichi at the official residence, the same venue where he met with Abe in previous years.

Afterward, the former president will travel to the Republic of Korea for the APEC summit, where he is set to engage with China's leader Xi.