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

The agenda of their summit is anticipated to center on economic and security issues, representing a key juncture for Japan's relationship with its powerful ally.

The Historic Leadership and Global Introduction

Takaichi, who just became Japan's first female prime minister after winning the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had her international debut at the latest Asean summit.

But, her forthcoming meeting with Trump is seen as the true challenge that will set the tone for coming two-way cooperation.

Navigating Internal and International Pressures

The prime minister confronts a possibly shaky political landscape, having formed a partnership that puts her a couple of votes away of a controlling number in the influential chamber of parliament.

This means, her government will rely on opposition MPs to approve laws, introducing a element of complexity to her governance.

Shared Perspectives and Diverging Interests

Takaichi holds the former president's wariness of China's military presence in the region, but each countries have faced issues from his "US-first" trade policies.

Recently, Trump facilitated a truce agreement between Thai and Cambodian authorities during the initial leg of his Asian tour.

Military Build-up and Budget Commitments

Takaichi has stated her commitment to accelerate Japan's military build-up, aiming to increase defense spending to two percent of GDP by the end of March.

This move matches a longstanding request from Trump and represents the biggest defense buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

The country has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the US, and plans to use locally made extended-range systems.

However, the two-way security treaty is still a point of tension, with the former president previously stating that Japan should contribute more for stationing US troops on its soil.

Economic Outlook and Talks

Not many anticipate major concessions on trade issues this week, especially after recent duty changes offered some ease to Japan's export sector.

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

Personal Rapport and the Abe Link

The importance Trump attributes to personal chemistry could work in the PM's advantage, given her close ties with assassinated former prime minister Abe, who was one of his preferred world leaders.

He was the first international leader to meet Trump after his victory, and the two developed a strong bond over mutual interests such as golf.

Forthcoming Agenda and Regional Implications

The former president's visit to Japan will begin with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the royal residence in the capital.

It will be followed by discussions with Takaichi at the state guest house, the very location where Trump held talks with the former leader in 2019.

Subsequently, Trump will travel to South Korea for the APEC summit, where he is scheduled to meet Chinese leader Xi.