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The nation's newly elected leader, Takaichi, is preparing to confront her initial significant diplomatic test as she engages with former US President Trump for important talks in Tokyo.

The agenda of their meeting is expected to center on economic and security topics, representing a key juncture for Japan's relationship with its influential ally.

A Notable Premiership and International Debut

Takaichi, who recently assumed the role of Japan's initial woman prime minister after securing the top position of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, made her global debut at the recent ASEAN summit.

However, her forthcoming meeting with Trump is considered the real test that will establish the direction for coming bilateral relations.

Handling Internal and Global Challenges

The prime minister faces a possibly shaky political situation, having formed a partnership that puts her a couple of votes away of a majority in the powerful lower house of parliament.

Consequently, her administration will depend on opposition lawmakers to pass laws, adding a layer of difficulty to her governance.

Shared Views and Differing Interests

She shares Trump's wariness of China's military presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet each nations have experienced issues from his "US-first" trade approach.

Recently, Trump facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodia authorities during the initial leg of his Asia tour.

Defense Expansion and Budget Pledges

The leader has expressed her commitment to accelerate Japan's military build-up, aiming to raise military spending to two percent of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This move matches a long-held request from Trump and signifies the largest defense buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Security Cooperation and Tensions

Japan has also taken steps to obtain "retaliatory" abilities, including cruise missiles from the US, and plans to use locally made longer-range systems.

But, the bilateral defense treaty remains a source of tension, with Trump earlier suggesting that Japan should contribute more for hosting American troops on its soil.

Economic Expectations and Negotiations

Few expect significant agreements on trade matters this week, especially after recent tariff adjustments offered a degree of relief to the country's economy.

Takaichi is likely to pursue additional benefits by committing to greater purchases of American goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Link

The value the former president attributes to individual rapport could benefit the PM's favor, given her close ties with assassinated former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was one of Trump's preferred world leaders.

Abe was the first international figure to visit the then president-elect after his election, and the two developed a strong relationship over mutual interests such as the sport.

Upcoming Schedule and International Significance

Trump's trip to the country will start with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the royal residence in the capital.

It will be succeeded by discussions with the PM at the official residence, the same venue where he met with Abe in previous years.

Subsequently, the former president will travel to South Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is scheduled to meet Chinese leader Xi.