The Recently Appointed Prime Minister Hopes to Leverage Shinzo Abe's Legacy in Crucial Talks with Trump.

The nation's freshly appointed leader, Takaichi, is preparing to face her primary diplomatic test as she engages with ex-President Trump for crucial discussions in Tokyo.

The agenda of their encounter is expected to focus on trade and security topics, marking a key moment for Tokyo's relationship with its powerful partner.

The Notable Premiership and Global Introduction

The new PM, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female prime minister after winning the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had her international debut at the recent ASEAN summit.

But, her upcoming talks with the former president is regarded as the real challenge that will set the tone for coming two-way relations.

Handling Domestic and International Challenges

The prime minister deals with a potentially shaky political landscape, having established a coalition that puts her a couple of votes short of a majority in the powerful chamber of parliament.

This means, her government will depend on other lawmakers to approve legislation, introducing a layer of complexity to her governance.

Shared Views and Diverging Interests

She holds Trump's wariness of China's military activities in the region, yet each nations have faced challenges from his "America-first" trade approach.

Lately, the former president oversaw a truce deal between Thailand and Cambodia forces during the first leg of his Asia visit.

Defense Build-up and Spending Pledges

The leader has expressed her commitment to accelerate Japan's defense expansion, planning to raise defense spending to two percent of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This step aligns with a long-held request from Trump and signifies the largest military expansion for Japan since the WWII.

Defense Cooperation and Tensions

The country has also moved to acquire "counterstrike" abilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the United States, and intends to use locally made extended-range systems.

But, the bilateral security treaty is still a point of strain, with the former president previously suggesting that Japan should pay more for hosting US forces on its soil.

Trade Outlook and Negotiations

Few anticipate major agreements on economic matters during the visit, especially after recent tariff changes offered a degree of relief to the country's economy.

Takaichi is expected to pursue additional relief by promising greater purchases of American products, including vehicles, soybeans, and natural gas.

Personal Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link

The value Trump places on individual chemistry could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her close ties with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was among Trump's preferred international figures.

He was the first international figure to meet Trump after his election, and the two built a strong bond over mutual interests such as golf.

Upcoming Agenda and Regional Implications

Trump's trip to the country will start with a audience with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

It will be followed by discussions with Takaichi at the state guest house, the very location where he held talks with Abe in 2019.

Subsequently, Trump will travel to South Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is scheduled to engage with Chinese leader Xi.