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Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is set to undertake her first major foreign policy test as she engages with ex-President Donald Trump for crucial talks in Tokyo.

Attention of their meeting is expected to focus on economic and security matters, representing a key moment for Tokyo's relationship with its powerful partner.

The Historic Premiership and International Debut

The new PM, who just assumed the role of Japan's initial woman leader after winning the top position of the ruling LDP, had her global introduction at the recent Asean meeting.

However, her upcoming meeting with the former president is considered the real test that will establish the direction for coming bilateral cooperation.

Navigating Domestic and International Challenges

The prime minister deals with a potentially shaky government situation, having formed a coalition that leaves her two seats away of a majority in the powerful chamber of the Diet.

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

Common Views and Diverging Interests

She shares Trump's suspicion of Chinese military presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet each nations have experienced issues from his "America-first" economic approach.

Recently, Trump facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodian forces during the first leg of his Asian visit.

Defense Build-up and Budget Pledges

Takaichi has expressed her commitment to speed up Japan's military expansion, aiming to raise military expenditure to 2% of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This move aligns with a longstanding demand from the former US leader and represents the biggest military buildup for the nation since the Second World War.

Security Cooperation and Tensions

Japan has also moved to obtain "retaliatory" abilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the United States, and intends to use locally made extended-range missiles.

But, the bilateral security agreement is still a source of tension, with Trump earlier suggesting that the nation should contribute more for hosting US troops on its soil.

Trade Outlook and Negotiations

Few anticipate significant concessions on trade issues during the visit, particularly after recent duty adjustments provided a degree of ease to Japan's export sector.

Takaichi is likely to seek further benefits by committing to increased purchases of American goods, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and gas.

Personal Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link

The importance the former president attributes to individual chemistry could benefit the PM's advantage, given her close relationship with the late ex-leader Abe, who was among his favorite world leaders.

Abe was the initial foreign leader to meet Trump after his victory, and the two developed a strong bond over shared interests such as golf.

Forthcoming Agenda and Regional Implications

The former president's trip to the country will begin with a meeting with Emperor Naruhito at the royal residence in Tokyo.

This will be succeeded by talks with Takaichi at the state guest house, the very location where he met with Abe in 2019.

Afterward, Trump will travel to the Republic of Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is set to engage with Chinese leader Xi.