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The nation's freshly appointed leader, Sanae Takaichi, is ready to face her primary diplomatic challenge as she engages with former US President Trump for crucial negotiations in the Japanese capital.

The focus of their summit is anticipated to focus on economic and security issues, representing a pivotal juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its powerful partner.

A Historic Leadership and Global Introduction

The new PM, who just became Japan's initial woman leader after securing the top position of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had 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 relations.

Managing Domestic and Global Challenges

The prime minister faces a possibly shaky political situation, having established a coalition that leaves her two seats short of a majority in the powerful lower house of parliament.

This means, her government will rely on opposition MPs to pass legislation, introducing a element of difficulty to her governance.

Common Views and Differing Interests

Takaichi shares the former president's wariness of Chinese military activities in the region, but each countries have experienced challenges from his "America-first" trade policies.

Recently, Trump oversaw a ceasefire deal between Thailand and Cambodia authorities on the initial leg of his Asia tour.

Military Build-up and Budget Commitments

The leader has expressed her commitment to accelerate Japan's military build-up, planning to raise military expenditure to 2% of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This step matches a longstanding request from Trump and signifies the largest defense buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Defense Cooperation and Strains

The country has also moved to obtain "counterstrike" abilities, including cruise missiles from the US, and plans to deploy domestically developed longer-range systems.

But, the two-way defense treaty remains a source of tension, with Trump previously stating that the nation should contribute more for hosting US forces on its soil.

Economic Expectations and Negotiations

Few anticipate significant agreements on economic issues this week, especially after latest tariff changes offered a degree of ease to Japan's economy.

The PM is likely to pursue further benefits by promising greater purchases of US products, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Abe Link

The value Trump attributes to individual chemistry could benefit the PM's advantage, given her close ties with assassinated former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was among his preferred international figures.

Abe was the initial foreign leader to meet Trump after his victory, and the pair developed a strong bond over shared activities such as golf.

Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Implications

Trump's trip to the country will begin with a meeting with the Emperor at the royal residence in the capital.

This will be followed by talks with the PM at the official residence, the very location where Trump met with the former leader in previous years.

Subsequently, the former president will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec summit, where he is set to engage with China's president Xi Jinping.