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The nation's freshly appointed leader, Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her first major foreign policy examination as she sits down with former US President Donald Trump for important discussions in the Japanese capital.

The agenda of their meeting is likely to focus on trade and defense topics, marking a pivotal moment for Japan's relationship with its powerful partner.

The Notable Premiership and International Debut

Takaichi, who recently became Japan's initial woman leader after winning the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, made her international introduction at the recent Asean summit.

But, her upcoming talks with the former president is seen as the true test that will establish the direction for future two-way cooperation.

Handling Domestic and International Challenges

The prime minister faces a possibly shaky government situation, having established a coalition that puts her a couple of votes short of a controlling number in the powerful lower house of parliament.

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

Shared Perspectives and Differing Policies

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of Chinese military presence in the region, but both nations have faced challenges from Trump's "America-first" trade policies.

Lately, the former president facilitated a truce agreement between Thai and Cambodia authorities during the first stage of his Asia visit.

Defense Expansion and Spending Commitments

Takaichi has expressed her commitment to speed up Japan's defense expansion, planning to increase defense spending to 2% of GDP by the end of March.

This move aligns with a longstanding demand from Trump and signifies the largest military buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Security Partnership and Strains

The country has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" abilities, including cruise missiles from the United States, and plans to deploy locally made longer-range missiles.

But, the two-way defense treaty is still a point of strain, with Trump earlier suggesting that the nation should contribute more for hosting US troops on its soil.

Economic Expectations and Talks

Not many expect major agreements on economic issues this week, particularly after recent tariff adjustments provided some relief to the country's economy.

The PM is likely to seek further relief by committing to greater acquisitions of US products, including vehicles, soybeans, and gas.

Personal Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link

The value the former president attributes to personal chemistry could work in Takaichi's favor, given her strong relationship with the late former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was among his preferred world leaders.

Abe was the first foreign figure to visit the then president-elect after his victory, and the pair developed a close relationship over mutual interests such as the sport.

Upcoming Schedule and International Significance

The former president's visit to the country will start with a meeting with the Emperor at the royal residence in the capital.

It will be succeeded by talks with Takaichi at the official residence, the very location where Trump met with the former leader in 2019.

Subsequently, the former president will proceed to South Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is set to engage with Chinese leader Xi.