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The nation's freshly appointed prime minister, Takaichi, is preparing to confront her primary diplomatic challenge as she engages with ex-President Donald Trump for high-stakes discussions in the Japanese capital.

The focus of their encounter is anticipated to focus on trade and security matters, signaling a key juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its powerful ally.

The Historic Leadership and Global Introduction

The new PM, who just assumed the role of Japan's initial woman prime minister after securing the leadership of the ruling LDP, had her global introduction at the latest ASEAN summit.

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

Handling Domestic and International Pressures

Takaichi confronts a possibly unstable political landscape, having established a coalition that puts her two seats away of a controlling number in the powerful chamber of the Diet.

Consequently, her administration will rely on other MPs to pass laws, adding a element of complexity to her governance.

Shared Views and Differing Interests

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

Recently, Trump facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia forces on the first leg of his Asia visit.

Military Build-up and Spending Pledges

Takaichi has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's military expansion, planning to raise military expenditure to two percent of GDP by the end of March.

This move aligns with a long-held request from the former US leader and signifies the biggest military buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Defense Partnership and Strains

The country has also taken steps to obtain "retaliatory" abilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the United States, and intends to deploy locally made longer-range systems.

But, the two-way security treaty remains a source of strain, with the former president earlier stating that Japan should pay more for stationing American forces on its soil.

Trade Expectations and Talks

Not many anticipate major concessions on trade issues during the visit, especially after latest tariff changes offered a degree of relief to the country's export sector.

The PM is likely to seek additional benefits by committing to greater purchases of US goods, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and natural gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Abe Connection

The importance Trump attributes to individual chemistry could benefit Takaichi's advantage, given her strong ties with the late former prime minister Abe, who was among his preferred world leaders.

He was the initial international leader to meet Trump after his victory, and the two built a close bond over shared activities such as golf.

Upcoming Schedule and Regional Implications

The former president's trip to Japan will start with a meeting with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

This will be succeeded by talks with Takaichi at the official residence, the same location where Trump met with the former leader in previous years.

Subsequently, Trump will travel to South Korea for the Apec summit, where he is set to meet Chinese president Xi.