The New PM Seeks to Benefit from Shinzo Abe's Influence in Key Negotiations with Donald Trump.

Japan's newly elected leader, Sanae Takaichi, is set to undertake her first major diplomatic test as she meets former US President Trump for crucial talks in Tokyo.

The agenda of their summit is likely to focus on economic and security topics, marking a pivotal moment for Japan's ties with its powerful ally.

The Historic Premiership and Global Debut

The new PM, who just assumed the role of Japan's initial woman leader after securing the leadership of the ruling LDP, made her global debut at the latest ASEAN summit.

However, her forthcoming meeting with the former president is regarded as the real test that will set the tone for future bilateral cooperation.

Managing Internal and International Pressures

Takaichi confronts a potentially shaky government situation, having formed a coalition that leaves her a couple of votes away of a majority in the powerful lower house of the Diet.

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

Common Views and Diverging Policies

Takaichi holds the former president's wariness of China's defense presence in the Asia-Pacific, but both nations have experienced challenges from his "US-first" economic approach.

Lately, Trump facilitated a ceasefire deal between Thai and Cambodia forces during the first stage of his Asian visit.

Defense Expansion and Budget Commitments

Takaichi has expressed her commitment to speed up Japan's military build-up, aiming to raise military spending to 2% of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This step matches a longstanding request from Trump and represents the biggest military expansion for Japan since the WWII.

Security Partnership and Strains

The country has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including cruise missiles from the US, and intends to deploy domestically developed longer-range missiles.

However, the two-way defense treaty remains a point of strain, with Trump previously suggesting that the nation should contribute more for hosting American forces on its soil.

Economic Outlook and Talks

Not many expect significant agreements on trade matters during the visit, especially after latest duty changes provided a degree of ease to Japan's export sector.

Takaichi is likely to seek additional benefits by committing to increased acquisitions of American products, including vehicles, soybeans, and gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Abe Link

The value the former president places on individual chemistry could benefit the PM's advantage, given her close ties with the late ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of his preferred international figures.

He was the initial international leader to visit Trump after his election, and the two built a strong bond over shared activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Schedule and International Significance

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

It will be succeeded by discussions with Takaichi at the state guest house, the very location where he met with the former leader in 2019.

Afterward, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the APEC summit, where he is scheduled to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping.