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The nation's newly elected leader, Sanae Takaichi, is set to confront her first major diplomatic examination as she meets former US President Trump for crucial discussions in the Japanese capital.

The agenda of their encounter is anticipated to focus on trade and defense issues, signaling a key moment for Tokyo's ties with its powerful partner.

A Significant Leadership and International Debut

The new PM, who recently became Japan's first female leader after securing the top position of the ruling LDP, made her international introduction at the recent Asean summit.

But, her upcoming talks with Trump is considered the real challenge that will establish the direction for future two-way relations.

Navigating Domestic and Global Challenges

The prime minister confronts a potentially shaky political situation, having formed a coalition that puts her a couple of votes short of a controlling number in the powerful chamber of parliament.

This means, her administration will rely on other lawmakers to pass laws, adding a layer of complexity to her governance.

Shared Views and Differing Interests

Takaichi holds the former president's suspicion of Chinese military presence in the Asia-Pacific, but each nations have faced issues from his "America-first" trade approach.

Recently, the former president facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodia authorities on the first leg of his Asia tour.

Defense Expansion and Budget Pledges

Takaichi has stated her determination to accelerate Japan's military expansion, planning to increase defense expenditure to two percent of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This step matches a longstanding request from the former US leader and signifies the largest defense expansion for Japan since the Second World War.

Security Partnership and Tensions

The country has also moved to obtain "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and intends to deploy locally made extended-range missiles.

However, the bilateral security agreement is still a source of tension, with the former president earlier suggesting that Japan should contribute more for stationing US forces on its soil.

Trade Outlook and Negotiations

Not many anticipate significant agreements on trade issues this week, especially after latest tariff changes provided some relief to Japan's economy.

The PM is expected to pursue additional relief by committing to greater purchases of US products, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and natural gas.

Personal Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link

The value the former president places on personal chemistry could benefit Takaichi's advantage, given her close relationship with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was among his preferred international figures.

He was the first international leader to meet the then president-elect after his election, and the pair developed a strong relationship over shared activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Agenda and Regional Significance

Trump's trip to Japan will start with a meeting with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

This will be followed by talks with the PM at the official residence, the same location where Trump held talks with Abe in 2019.

Afterward, the former president will travel to the Republic of Korea for the APEC summit, where he is set to engage with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.