Japan's New PM Aims to Leverage Abe's Connection in Key Negotiations with Trump.

Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is ready to confront her first major diplomatic test as she engages with former US President Donald Trump for crucial negotiations in the Japanese capital.

Attention of their meeting is anticipated to focus on economic and defense issues, representing a pivotal moment for Japan's ties with its powerful partner.

A Historic Leadership and International Introduction

The new PM, who just became Japan's initial woman leader after winning the leadership of the ruling LDP, had her international debut at the latest Asean meeting.

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

Navigating Domestic and Global Pressures

Takaichi deals with a potentially shaky government situation, having established a partnership that puts her a couple of votes away of a controlling number in the influential chamber of parliament.

Consequently, her administration will depend on other lawmakers to pass legislation, adding a layer of complexity to her leadership.

Common Views and Differing Policies

Takaichi shares the former president's suspicion of China's defense activities in the Asia-Pacific, but both nations have faced challenges from Trump's "US-first" economic policies.

Lately, Trump oversaw a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodian authorities during the initial stage of his Asian visit.

Defense Expansion and Spending Commitments

The leader has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's defense expansion, aiming to raise defense spending to two percent of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This step aligns with a long-held request from Trump and represents the largest defense buildup for Japan since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Strains

The country has also moved to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the United States, and plans to use locally made longer-range missiles.

But, the two-way security agreement is still a point of tension, with the former president previously stating that the nation should contribute more for stationing American forces on its soil.

Trade Outlook and Negotiations

Few expect major concessions on economic issues during the visit, particularly after latest duty changes provided some ease to the country's economy.

Takaichi is likely to pursue further relief by committing to increased acquisitions of US products, including vehicles, soybeans, and natural gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Abe Link

The importance the former president places on individual rapport could work in the PM's favor, given her close relationship with the late ex-leader Abe, who was one of his preferred world leaders.

Abe was the first international figure to visit Trump after his victory, and the pair developed a close relationship over mutual interests such as golf.

Upcoming Agenda and Regional Implications

Trump's trip to the country will begin with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

It will be followed by discussions with the PM at the official residence, the very venue where he held talks with Abe in 2019.

Subsequently, Trump will travel to the Republic of Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is scheduled to meet China's president Xi Jinping.