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The nation's recently chosen leader, Takaichi, is ready to undertake her initial significant foreign policy test as she engages with ex-President Trump for important talks in Tokyo.

The agenda of their encounter is likely to revolve around trade and security matters, representing a pivotal juncture for Japan's ties with its influential partner.

A Historic Leadership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after securing the top position of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, had her international introduction at the recent Asean summit.

But, her forthcoming meeting with Trump is considered the true test that will set the tone for future two-way relations.

Handling Internal and Global Challenges

Takaichi faces a possibly shaky political landscape, having established a partnership that leaves her a couple of votes short of a majority in the influential chamber of the Diet.

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

Common Views and Differing Interests

Takaichi shares the former president's suspicion of Chinese defense presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet both countries have experienced issues from his "America-first" trade policies.

Recently, the former president facilitated a ceasefire deal between Thai and Cambodia forces on the initial leg of his Asian visit.

Defense Expansion and Spending Commitments

The leader has expressed her commitment to speed up Japan's military build-up, planning to raise defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

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

Security Partnership and Tensions

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

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

Economic Expectations and Negotiations

Not many anticipate major agreements on economic matters during the visit, particularly after recent duty changes provided some relief to the country's economy.

Takaichi is expected to pursue additional benefits by promising increased acquisitions of American goods, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and gas.

Individual Rapport and the Abe Link

The importance Trump places on personal rapport could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her close ties with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was among his preferred world leaders.

Abe was the initial foreign leader to meet the then president-elect after his election, and the two developed a strong relationship over mutual activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Schedule and International Implications

The former president's trip to the country 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 venue where Trump met with the former leader in 2019.

Subsequently, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is scheduled to engage with China's president Xi.