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The nation's newly elected leader, Sanae Takaichi, is set to confront her primary diplomatic examination as she meets ex-President Trump for important discussions in Tokyo.

Attention of their encounter is expected to center on economic and security topics, marking a pivotal moment for Tokyo's ties with its influential ally.

The Historic Leadership and Global Introduction

The new PM, who recently became Japan's initial woman leader after securing the leadership of the governing LDP, had her global debut at the latest Asean meeting.

But, her upcoming talks with Trump is considered the true challenge that will set the tone for future two-way relations.

Managing Domestic and Global Pressures

The prime minister deals with a potentially unstable political landscape, having formed a partnership that puts her two seats away of a majority in the influential lower house of parliament.

This means, her administration will depend on other MPs to pass laws, introducing a element of complexity to her leadership.

Shared Views and Differing Interests

Takaichi shares the former president's suspicion of China's defense activities in the Asia-Pacific, yet each countries have experienced issues from Trump's "America-first" economic policies.

Recently, Trump oversaw a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodian authorities on the initial leg of his Asian visit.

Military Build-up and Spending Commitments

Takaichi has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's military expansion, planning to raise military expenditure 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 largest military buildup for the nation since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Strains

Japan has also taken steps to obtain "counterstrike" abilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the US, and intends to deploy locally made extended-range missiles.

However, the bilateral security treaty remains a point of strain, with the former president previously stating that Japan should contribute more for hosting US forces on its soil.

Trade Expectations and Talks

Not many expect significant agreements on economic issues during the visit, particularly after latest tariff adjustments provided some ease to Japan's economy.

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

Personal Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Link

The importance the former president places on individual rapport could benefit the PM's favor, given her close ties with the late ex-leader Abe, who was one of his favorite world leaders.

He was the first international figure to visit Trump after his election, and the two built a strong relationship over mutual interests such as golf.

Forthcoming Schedule and International Implications

Trump's visit to Japan will start with a audience with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

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

Afterward, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is scheduled to meet China's leader Xi Jinping.