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Japan's newly elected leader, Takaichi, is ready to face her initial significant foreign policy test as she meets ex-President Donald Trump for high-stakes talks in the Japanese capital.

The agenda of their meeting is anticipated to focus on trade and security matters, representing a critical moment for Japan's relationship with its powerful partner.

A Significant Premiership and International Introduction

The new PM, who recently became Japan's initial woman leader after winning the leadership of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, had her international introduction at the latest ASEAN meeting.

But, her upcoming talks with Trump is considered the true challenge that will set the tone for coming two-way cooperation.

Navigating Internal and International Challenges

Takaichi faces a possibly unstable political situation, having formed a partnership that leaves her two seats away of a controlling number in the influential chamber of the Diet.

This means, her government will rely on opposition lawmakers to approve legislation, adding a element of difficulty to her leadership.

Common Views and Differing Policies

She holds the former president's wariness of China's defense presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet each nations have faced issues from his "America-first" trade approach.

Recently, Trump facilitated a truce agreement between Thai and Cambodia forces during the first stage of his Asia tour.

Military Expansion and Budget Commitments

The leader has expressed her determination to speed up Japan's military expansion, planning to increase military expenditure to 2% of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This move matches a long-held request from Trump and signifies the biggest military expansion for Japan since the WWII.

Security Cooperation and Tensions

The country has also taken steps to obtain "counterstrike" capabilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the US, and plans to deploy locally made extended-range systems.

But, the two-way defense treaty is still a point of tension, with Trump previously suggesting that Japan should contribute more for stationing US troops on its territory.

Trade Outlook and Talks

Few expect major concessions on economic issues during the visit, especially after latest duty adjustments offered a degree of relief to the country's economy.

Takaichi is expected to seek further relief by committing to greater acquisitions of American goods, including vehicles, soybeans, and gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Abe Link

The value the former president places on individual chemistry could work in the PM's advantage, given her close relationship with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was one of his favorite world leaders.

He was the initial international leader to meet the then president-elect after his election, and the two developed a strong bond over shared activities such as golf.

Forthcoming Agenda and Regional Significance

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

This will be followed by discussions with the PM at the state guest house, the same location where he met with the former leader in 2019.

Subsequently, Trump will travel to South Korea for the APEC summit, where he is set to engage with Chinese president Xi.