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The nation's recently chosen leader, Takaichi, is set to face her primary diplomatic examination as she sits down with former US President Donald Trump for high-stakes discussions in the Japanese capital.

Attention of their meeting is anticipated to revolve around economic and defense topics, marking a pivotal juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its influential partner.

The Significant Premiership and Global Debut

Takaichi, who just became Japan's first female prime minister after securing the top position of the governing LDP, made her global debut at the recent Asean meeting.

But, her forthcoming talks with Trump is considered the real test that will establish the direction for coming bilateral cooperation.

Managing Internal and International Pressures

Takaichi faces a potentially shaky government landscape, having formed a coalition that puts her a couple of votes away of a controlling number in the powerful chamber of parliament.

This means, her administration will rely on opposition lawmakers to pass legislation, introducing a element of difficulty to her governance.

Shared Views and Differing Policies

She shares Trump's wariness of Chinese defense activities in the Asia-Pacific, but each countries have experienced challenges from Trump's "US-first" trade approach.

Recently, Trump facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodia authorities during the first stage of his Asian tour.

Military Expansion and Budget Commitments

The leader has stated her determination to speed up Japan's military expansion, aiming to raise military expenditure to 2% of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This step aligns with a longstanding request from Trump and represents the largest defense buildup for the nation since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

The country has also moved to obtain "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise missiles from the US, and plans to deploy domestically developed extended-range missiles.

However, the two-way defense treaty remains a source of strain, with Trump earlier stating that the nation should pay more for hosting US forces on its territory.

Trade Expectations and Talks

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

Takaichi is expected to seek additional relief by committing to increased purchases of US goods, including vehicles, soybeans, and natural gas.

Individual Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The importance Trump places on personal rapport could benefit Takaichi's advantage, given her close ties with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was among his favorite international figures.

He was the first foreign figure to meet Trump after his victory, and the two built a strong relationship over mutual interests such as the sport.

Forthcoming Schedule and International Implications

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

It will be followed by discussions with Takaichi at the state guest house, the same venue where he held talks with Abe in previous years.

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