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The nation's recently chosen prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is ready to confront her primary diplomatic test as she sits down with ex-President Donald Trump for important discussions in the Japanese capital.

The focus of their encounter is expected to revolve around trade and defense issues, signaling a pivotal moment for Japan's relationship with its powerful ally.

The Historic Premiership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who recently became Japan's first female leader after securing the top position of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, made her global debut at the recent Asean summit.

But, her forthcoming meeting with the former president is considered the true challenge that will establish the direction for future bilateral cooperation.

Handling Internal and Global Challenges

Takaichi confronts a possibly shaky government landscape, having formed a partnership that puts her two seats away of a majority in the influential lower house of parliament.

This means, her administration will depend on opposition lawmakers to pass laws, introducing a element of complexity to her leadership.

Common Perspectives and Diverging Interests

She holds Trump's wariness of Chinese defense activities in the Asia-Pacific, but each nations have faced issues from his "America-first" trade approach.

Recently, Trump facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodia forces during the first leg of his Asia visit.

Military Expansion and Spending Pledges

Takaichi has stated her commitment to speed up Japan's military expansion, aiming to raise defense spending to two percent of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This move matches a longstanding demand from the former US leader and represents the biggest defense buildup for Japan since the Second World War.

Defense Cooperation and Strains

Japan has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and intends to deploy domestically developed extended-range systems.

However, the two-way security agreement remains a source of strain, with the former president previously suggesting that the nation should contribute more for hosting American troops on its soil.

Trade Expectations and Negotiations

Few expect significant agreements on trade issues this week, particularly after recent tariff adjustments offered some relief to the country's economy.

Takaichi is expected to seek additional benefits by promising increased acquisitions of US products, including vehicles, soybeans, and gas.

Personal Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link

The value Trump places on personal rapport could benefit the PM's advantage, given her close ties with the late ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of his favorite international figures.

He was the initial foreign leader to visit Trump after his victory, and the two developed a close relationship over mutual activities such as the sport.

Upcoming Schedule and Regional Significance

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

It will be followed by discussions with Takaichi at the official residence, the same venue where Trump met with the former leader in previous years.

Afterward, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the APEC summit, where he is scheduled to meet China's president Xi Jinping.