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Japan's freshly appointed leader, Sanae Takaichi, is set to face her first major foreign policy test as she engages with ex-President Trump for crucial discussions in the Japanese capital.

Attention of their summit is anticipated to focus on economic and security matters, representing a pivotal juncture for Japan's ties with its powerful partner.

A Notable Leadership and International Debut

Takaichi, who just assumed the role of Japan's initial woman leader after winning the top position of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had her international introduction at the latest Asean meeting.

However, her forthcoming meeting with the former president is regarded as the real challenge that will establish the direction for future bilateral relations.

Navigating Internal and International Challenges

Takaichi faces a potentially unstable government landscape, having formed a partnership that puts her a couple of votes short of a controlling number in the influential chamber of parliament.

Consequently, her government will depend on other MPs to approve legislation, adding a layer of complexity to her leadership.

Shared Views and Differing Policies

She shares the former president's suspicion of Chinese military activities in the region, yet each nations have experienced challenges from his "US-first" economic policies.

Recently, the former president facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodia authorities during the initial stage of his Asian visit.

Defense Build-up and Budget Pledges

The leader has stated her commitment to speed up Japan's defense expansion, aiming to increase defense spending to two percent of GDP by the end of March.

This move aligns with a longstanding request from Trump and signifies the largest defense buildup for Japan since the Second World War.

Security Partnership and Strains

Japan has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the US, and intends to deploy domestically developed longer-range missiles.

But, the two-way security treaty is still a point of strain, with the former president previously suggesting that the nation should pay more for stationing US troops on its territory.

Economic Outlook and Negotiations

Few expect major concessions on trade issues this week, especially after latest duty changes provided some relief to the country's economy.

The PM is likely to seek further relief by promising increased acquisitions of US products, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link

The value the former president places on individual chemistry could work in the PM's favor, given her close ties with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was among Trump's favorite international figures.

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

Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Significance

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

This will be followed by talks with the PM at the state guest house, the same location where he held talks 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 scheduled to engage with China's president Xi Jinping.