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Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her first major foreign policy test as she meets former US President Donald Trump for important negotiations in Tokyo.

The focus of their encounter is likely to focus on economic and defense topics, representing a key juncture for Japan's ties with its influential partner.

The Notable Leadership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who recently became Japan's initial woman leader after securing the leadership of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, made her international introduction at the recent ASEAN summit.

But, her forthcoming talks with the former president is regarded as the real test that will set the tone for future bilateral cooperation.

Navigating Domestic and International Pressures

The prime minister confronts a possibly shaky government situation, having formed a coalition that leaves her two seats away of a majority in the influential chamber of parliament.

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

Shared Views and Diverging Policies

Takaichi shares the former president's suspicion of China's defense presence in the region, but both countries have experienced issues from Trump's "US-first" economic policies.

Lately, Trump oversaw a truce deal between Thai and Cambodia forces on the initial stage of his Asia tour.

Defense Expansion and Spending Pledges

The leader has expressed her determination to speed up Japan's defense build-up, aiming to raise defense spending to 2% of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This step aligns with a longstanding demand from the former US leader and signifies the biggest defense buildup for the nation since the WWII.

Security Cooperation and Strains

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

However, the two-way security treaty is still a point of strain, with Trump previously suggesting that the nation should pay more for hosting US forces on its soil.

Economic Outlook and Talks

Not many expect significant agreements on economic issues this week, especially after recent tariff adjustments provided some ease to Japan's economy.

The PM is likely to pursue additional benefits by committing to greater purchases of US goods, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Personal Rapport and the Abe Link

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

He was the initial foreign leader to visit the then president-elect after his victory, and the two built a strong relationship over mutual activities such as golf.

Upcoming Schedule and Regional Implications

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

It will be succeeded by talks with Takaichi at the official residence, the same venue where he held talks with the former leader in previous years.

Afterward, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is set to engage with Chinese president Xi.