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Japan's freshly appointed leader, Takaichi, is preparing to face her initial significant diplomatic examination as she engages with ex-President Donald Trump for crucial talks in Tokyo.

The agenda of their encounter is likely to focus on economic and security issues, representing a key juncture for Japan's ties with its powerful partner.

A Significant Leadership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who just became Japan's initial woman leader after winning the top position of the governing LDP, made her international introduction at the latest Asean summit.

However, her forthcoming talks with Trump is regarded as the real test that will set the tone for coming two-way cooperation.

Handling Internal and Global Pressures

Takaichi deals with a potentially unstable political situation, having formed a coalition that puts her two seats away of a majority in the powerful chamber of the Diet.

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

Shared Views and Diverging Interests

She holds Trump's suspicion of China's defense activities in the region, yet each countries have experienced challenges from his "America-first" trade policies.

Lately, Trump facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodian forces during the first leg of his Asian tour.

Defense Expansion and Budget Commitments

The leader has stated her determination to accelerate Japan's military build-up, aiming to increase defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This move aligns with a long-held request from the former US leader and represents the largest defense expansion for the nation since the WWII.

Security Partnership and Strains

The country has also moved to obtain "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the United States, and intends to use locally made longer-range systems.

But, the two-way defense treaty remains a point of strain, with Trump earlier stating that the nation should contribute more for stationing US troops on its territory.

Trade Expectations and Negotiations

Not many expect major agreements on trade issues this week, particularly after recent duty changes provided a degree of ease to Japan's export sector.

Takaichi is expected to seek further relief by promising increased purchases of US products, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Rapport and the Abe Connection

The value Trump attributes to individual chemistry could work in the PM's advantage, given her close relationship with the late ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite world leaders.

Abe was the first international figure to visit the then president-elect after his victory, and the pair built a close relationship over mutual activities such as golf.

Forthcoming Schedule and International Implications

The former president's visit to the country will start with a audience with the Emperor at the royal residence in Tokyo.

This will be followed by talks with Takaichi at the official residence, the same venue where Trump met with Abe in previous years.

Afterward, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the APEC summit, where he is set to engage with China's leader Xi.