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The nation's recently chosen prime minister, Takaichi, is ready to undertake her primary foreign policy examination as she meets former US President Donald Trump for high-stakes talks in Tokyo.

Attention of their summit is anticipated to revolve around economic and defense matters, signaling a pivotal moment for Tokyo's relationship with its powerful ally.

The Notable Premiership and Global Introduction

The new PM, who recently became Japan's initial woman prime minister after securing the top position of the ruling LDP, made her global debut at the recent ASEAN meeting.

But, her upcoming meeting with Trump is seen as the real test that will establish the direction for future bilateral cooperation.

Managing Internal and Global Challenges

Takaichi confronts a possibly shaky political situation, having formed a coalition that puts her two seats short of a controlling number in the powerful lower house of parliament.

This means, her government will depend on opposition MPs to pass legislation, adding a element of difficulty to her governance.

Common Perspectives and Diverging Policies

She holds Trump's suspicion of Chinese military activities in the Asia-Pacific, yet each countries have experienced challenges from his "America-first" trade approach.

Recently, Trump oversaw a truce deal between Thai and Cambodia authorities on the first stage of his Asian tour.

Military Expansion and Spending Pledges

Takaichi has expressed her commitment to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, planning to increase military spending to two percent of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This move aligns with a long-held request from Trump and represents the biggest military expansion for Japan since the Second World War.

Defense Cooperation and Strains

The country has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the United States, and intends to deploy locally made extended-range missiles.

However, the bilateral defense treaty is still a source of strain, with the former president earlier stating that Japan should contribute more for hosting American troops on its soil.

Trade Outlook and Talks

Few anticipate major agreements on economic issues during the visit, especially after latest duty changes provided a degree of ease to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is likely to pursue further relief by committing to increased purchases of American goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Abe Link

The importance Trump attributes to individual rapport could benefit the PM's advantage, given her close ties with assassinated former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was one of his preferred world leaders.

Abe was the initial international leader to meet Trump after his election, and the two built a strong bond over shared activities such as the sport.

Upcoming Schedule and International Implications

The former president's visit to the country will start with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the royal residence in Tokyo.

This will be followed by discussions with the PM at the official residence, the very location where he met with the former leader in previous years.

Afterward, the former president will proceed to South Korea for the APEC summit, where he is scheduled to meet Chinese president Xi.