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Japan's newly elected prime minister, Takaichi, is set to undertake her first major diplomatic test as she sits down with ex-President Donald Trump for high-stakes talks in the Japanese capital.

Attention of their summit is likely to revolve around trade and security issues, marking a key juncture for Japan's relationship with its powerful partner.

A Significant Premiership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who recently became Japan's first female prime minister after securing the top position of the ruling LDP, had her international debut at the recent ASEAN summit.

But, her upcoming meeting with Trump is seen as the true challenge that will set the tone for future bilateral cooperation.

Navigating Internal and Global Pressures

The prime minister confronts a potentially unstable government landscape, having formed a partnership that leaves her two seats away of a majority in the powerful chamber of the Diet.

Consequently, her administration will depend on other MPs to pass laws, introducing a layer of complexity to her governance.

Common Views and Diverging Policies

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of Chinese defense activities in the region, yet each countries have faced challenges from Trump's "US-first" trade approach.

Lately, the former president facilitated a ceasefire deal between Thailand and Cambodian forces on the initial stage of his Asia visit.

Defense Build-up and Spending Pledges

Takaichi has expressed her commitment to speed up Japan's defense expansion, planning to increase defense expenditure to 2% of GDP by the end of March.

This step aligns with a long-held demand from the former US leader and signifies the largest military buildup for the nation since the WWII.

Security Cooperation and Tensions

The country has also taken steps to obtain "counterstrike" abilities, including cruise missiles from the United States, and plans to use locally made longer-range systems.

But, the bilateral defense agreement is still a point of strain, with Trump earlier suggesting that Japan should contribute more for hosting American troops on its soil.

Economic Outlook and Negotiations

Not many anticipate major agreements on economic issues this week, particularly after latest tariff adjustments provided some ease to the country's economy.

The PM is expected to pursue further relief by promising greater purchases of US goods, including vehicles, soybeans, and gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The value Trump places on personal rapport could work in the PM's favor, given her strong ties with the late former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite world leaders.

He was the first international leader to meet the then president-elect after his victory, and the two built a close relationship over shared activities such as the sport.

Upcoming Agenda and International Significance

Trump's trip to the country will begin with a audience with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

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

Subsequently, the former president will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is set to engage with China's leader Xi.