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The nation's recently chosen leader, Takaichi, is set to undertake her first major diplomatic examination as she meets former US President Donald Trump for important talks in Tokyo.

Attention of their encounter is expected to revolve around trade and security matters, representing a key moment for Tokyo's ties with its influential ally.

A Notable Leadership and International Debut

The new PM, who recently became Japan's first female leader after winning the top position of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, made her international debut at the recent ASEAN meeting.

However, her upcoming talks with Trump is seen as the true challenge that will establish the direction for future two-way relations.

Managing Internal and Global Challenges

The prime minister faces a possibly unstable government situation, having established a coalition that puts her a couple of votes short of a controlling number 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 governance.

Common Perspectives and Diverging Policies

Takaichi holds Trump's suspicion of China's defense presence in the region, but each nations have experienced issues from his "US-first" trade policies.

Lately, Trump facilitated a ceasefire deal between Thai and Cambodian forces during the initial stage of his Asia tour.

Defense Build-up and Budget Commitments

Takaichi has expressed her commitment to speed up Japan's military expansion, planning to raise military spending to 2% of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This step aligns with a long-held demand from Trump and represents the biggest military buildup for the nation since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

Japan has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and plans to deploy domestically developed extended-range systems.

But, the bilateral defense agreement remains a source of tension, with the former president earlier suggesting that Japan should contribute more for hosting American forces on its soil.

Trade Expectations and Talks

Few anticipate significant agreements on trade issues during the visit, especially after recent duty changes offered a degree of relief to Japan's export sector.

Takaichi is expected to pursue additional relief by promising greater acquisitions of US goods, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Abe Link

The value the former president attributes to personal rapport could work in the PM's advantage, given her close relationship with the late ex-leader Abe, who was among Trump's favorite world leaders.

He was the initial international leader to meet Trump after his election, and the pair developed a close bond over shared activities such as the sport.

Upcoming Agenda and Regional Significance

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

It will be followed by talks with Takaichi at the official residence, the very venue where he held talks with the former leader in previous years.

Subsequently, the former president will proceed to South Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is set to meet China's president Xi.