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Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her initial significant foreign policy challenge as she meets former US President Trump for high-stakes talks in Tokyo.

The focus of their encounter is expected to revolve around trade and defense topics, representing a key juncture for Japan's ties with its powerful ally.

A Notable Leadership and Global Introduction

The new PM, who recently became Japan's first female prime minister after winning the top position of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had her international introduction at the recent ASEAN meeting.

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

Handling Domestic and International Challenges

The prime minister deals with a possibly shaky political landscape, having established a partnership that leaves her two seats away of a controlling number in the influential chamber of parliament.

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

Common Perspectives and Diverging Interests

She holds the former president's suspicion of China's military presence in the Asia-Pacific, but each countries have faced issues from his "America-first" economic approach.

Recently, the former president oversaw a truce deal between Thailand and Cambodia forces on the initial leg of his Asia visit.

Defense Build-up and Budget Pledges

Takaichi has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's military build-up, planning to raise military spending to 2% of GDP by the end of March.

This move matches a long-held demand from Trump and represents the largest defense buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Security Cooperation and Tensions

Japan has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" abilities, including cruise weapons from the United States, and intends to use domestically developed extended-range systems.

But, the two-way defense agreement remains a source of strain, with Trump earlier suggesting that Japan should contribute more for hosting US forces on its territory.

Economic Expectations and Negotiations

Few expect significant concessions on trade matters this week, particularly after latest duty adjustments offered a degree of relief to the country's economy.

Takaichi is expected to pursue additional benefits by promising greater purchases of American goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link

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

Abe was the initial international figure to visit the then president-elect after his election, and the pair built a close relationship over shared activities such as golf.

Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Significance

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

This will be followed by talks with Takaichi at the state guest house, the very venue where Trump held talks with the former leader in 2019.

Afterward, Trump will travel to South Korea for the APEC summit, where he is set to meet China's leader Xi.