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The nation's recently chosen leader, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to confront her primary foreign policy examination as she meets ex-President Trump for crucial talks in Tokyo.

Attention of their summit is likely to revolve around economic and security issues, marking a critical juncture for Japan's relationship with its powerful ally.

A Notable Premiership and International Debut

Takaichi, who just became Japan's initial woman leader after securing the top position of the governing LDP, had her global introduction at the recent Asean summit.

However, her forthcoming talks with Trump is seen as the real test that will set the tone for future two-way cooperation.

Handling Domestic and International Pressures

Takaichi deals with a potentially shaky political landscape, having formed a partnership that puts her a couple of votes away of a controlling number in the influential lower house of parliament.

This means, her administration will depend on opposition lawmakers to approve laws, adding a element of complexity to her governance.

Common Views and Diverging Policies

Takaichi holds Trump's suspicion of Chinese military activities in the Asia-Pacific, yet both nations have faced issues from his "US-first" trade policies.

Recently, Trump oversaw a truce deal between Thai and Cambodian authorities on the initial stage of his Asian visit.

Defense Build-up and Spending Commitments

The leader has expressed her commitment to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, planning to raise military expenditure to 2% of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This move matches a longstanding request from Trump and signifies the largest defense expansion for the nation since the Second World War.

Security Cooperation and Strains

Japan has also moved to acquire "counterstrike" abilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the US, and intends to use locally made extended-range missiles.

But, the bilateral security agreement is still a point of tension, with Trump earlier stating that the nation should pay more for stationing US forces on its soil.

Economic Outlook and Negotiations

Few anticipate major agreements on economic issues during the visit, especially after recent tariff adjustments provided a degree of ease to the country's economy.

Takaichi is expected to pursue further relief by promising increased acquisitions of American goods, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Rapport and the Abe Connection

The value the former president places on personal chemistry could work in the PM's advantage, given her strong ties with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of his preferred international figures.

Abe was the first foreign figure to visit Trump after his election, and the two developed a strong relationship over mutual activities such as golf.

Upcoming Schedule and International Implications

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

It will be followed by discussions with the PM at the official residence, the very venue where he met with Abe in previous years.

Afterward, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is set to engage with China's president Xi.