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The nation's recently chosen prime minister, Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her initial significant foreign policy examination as she sits down with former US President Donald Trump for high-stakes talks in the Japanese capital.

Attention of their encounter is anticipated to center on trade and defense topics, signaling a pivotal moment for Japan's ties with its influential partner.

A Significant Premiership and International Debut

Takaichi, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female prime minister after securing the top position of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, made her global introduction at the recent Asean meeting.

But, her forthcoming meeting with Trump is considered the real test that will set the tone for coming two-way relations.

Handling Domestic and Global Challenges

Takaichi confronts a potentially shaky government situation, having established a coalition that leaves her a couple of votes short of a controlling number in the influential lower house of the Diet.

This means, her administration will rely on opposition MPs to approve legislation, introducing a element of difficulty to her leadership.

Shared Views and Diverging Interests

Takaichi holds Trump's suspicion of Chinese military presence in the region, but each countries have faced issues from Trump's "US-first" economic policies.

Lately, Trump facilitated a truce agreement between Thailand and Cambodian forces during the initial leg of his Asian visit.

Defense Expansion and Budget Commitments

The leader has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's defense expansion, planning to increase defense expenditure to 2% of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This move matches a long-held request from the former US leader and represents the largest military buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Defense Partnership and Strains

Japan has also moved to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the US, and intends to use locally made longer-range systems.

However, the bilateral security treaty remains a source of strain, with Trump earlier stating that the nation should contribute more for stationing American forces on its territory.

Trade Outlook and Negotiations

Not many anticipate significant concessions on trade matters during the visit, particularly after latest tariff changes provided some relief to Japan's economy.

The PM is expected to pursue further benefits by committing to increased purchases of US products, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Personal Rapport and the Abe Link

The importance Trump attributes to individual chemistry could benefit the PM's favor, given her strong relationship with the late ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was among Trump's favorite world leaders.

Abe was the first international figure to meet the then president-elect after his victory, and the pair developed a strong bond over mutual activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Implications

The former president's visit to Japan will start with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

It will be succeeded by talks with the PM at the state guest house, the same venue where he held talks with Abe in previous years.

Subsequently, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is set to meet China's president Xi Jinping.