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The nation's freshly appointed prime minister, Takaichi, is ready to undertake her first major diplomatic examination as she engages with former US President Donald Trump for important discussions in Tokyo.

The focus of their summit is likely to center on economic and defense matters, marking a pivotal moment for Japan's ties with its powerful partner.

The Historic Leadership and Global Debut

The new PM, who just became Japan's initial woman leader after securing the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had her global debut at the recent ASEAN summit.

But, her upcoming talks with the former president is regarded as the true test that will set the tone for coming bilateral cooperation.

Handling Internal and Global Challenges

The prime minister faces a possibly unstable political landscape, having established a partnership that leaves her two seats short of a controlling number in the influential chamber of the Diet.

This means, her government will depend on other lawmakers to pass laws, adding a element of complexity to her governance.

Common Perspectives and Diverging Policies

Takaichi shares the former president's wariness of Chinese military activities in the region, but each countries have faced issues from his "America-first" economic policies.

Lately, Trump oversaw a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia forces on the initial stage of his Asia visit.

Defense Build-up and Spending Commitments

The leader has stated her determination to speed up Japan's defense build-up, planning to increase military expenditure to two percent of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This step aligns with a long-held request from the former US leader and signifies the largest military buildup for Japan since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Strains

The country has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the United States, and plans to deploy locally made longer-range missiles.

However, the two-way security treaty remains a source of strain, with Trump previously stating that Japan should pay more for stationing American troops on its soil.

Trade Outlook and Talks

Not many expect significant agreements on trade matters this week, particularly after latest tariff changes offered a degree of relief to Japan's export sector.

The PM is expected to pursue additional benefits by committing to greater purchases of American products, including vehicles, soybeans, and natural gas.

Personal Rapport and the Abe Connection

The value Trump places on individual rapport could benefit Takaichi's advantage, given her strong relationship with the late ex-leader Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite world leaders.

Abe was the first foreign figure to meet the then president-elect after his victory, and the two built a strong relationship over shared activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Schedule and International Implications

The former president's visit to the country 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 very venue where Trump held talks with Abe in previous years.

Afterward, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the APEC summit, where he is scheduled to meet China's leader Xi Jinping.