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The nation's recently chosen leader, Takaichi, is set to confront her primary diplomatic challenge as she meets ex-President Donald Trump for high-stakes talks in Tokyo.

The agenda of their encounter is expected to revolve around economic and defense matters, signaling a key moment for Tokyo's relationship with its powerful ally.

The Notable Premiership and Global Introduction

The new PM, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after securing the leadership of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, made her international debut at the latest Asean meeting.

But, her forthcoming meeting with the former president is considered the true challenge that will establish the direction for future two-way cooperation.

Navigating Internal and Global Pressures

The prime minister deals with a potentially unstable government landscape, having established a partnership that puts her a couple of votes short of a controlling number in the influential chamber of the Diet.

This means, her government will depend on opposition MPs to pass legislation, introducing a layer of difficulty to her leadership.

Common Views and Differing Policies

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of China's military activities in the Asia-Pacific, but each countries have experienced issues from his "US-first" trade approach.

Recently, the former president oversaw a truce deal between Thai and Cambodian forces during the first leg of his Asian visit.

Military Build-up and Budget Pledges

Takaichi has stated her determination to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, planning to raise defense expenditure to two percent of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This move matches a long-held demand from the former US leader and signifies the largest defense expansion for the nation since the WWII.

Security Cooperation and Strains

The country has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" abilities, including cruise weapons from the United States, and plans to use domestically developed extended-range missiles.

But, the two-way security agreement is still a point of strain, with Trump earlier stating that Japan should contribute more for hosting American troops on its territory.

Trade Expectations and Negotiations

Few anticipate major concessions on economic matters during the visit, especially after latest tariff changes offered some ease to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is likely to seek additional relief by promising increased purchases of American products, including vehicles, soybeans, and gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Link

The importance the former president places on personal chemistry could work in the PM's favor, given her strong relationship with assassinated former prime minister Abe, who was one of his preferred international figures.

He was the initial foreign leader to visit Trump after his election, and the two developed a strong relationship over shared activities such as golf.

Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Significance

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

It will be succeeded by discussions with the PM at the state guest house, the very location where Trump held talks with Abe in previous years.

Afterward, the former president will travel to South Korea for the APEC summit, where he is scheduled to engage with Chinese president Xi.