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Japan's newly elected leader, Takaichi, is set to confront her primary foreign policy test as she sits down with ex-President Donald Trump for important talks in the Japanese capital.

The agenda of their encounter is expected to center on trade and security issues, marking a critical juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its influential partner.

A Historic Premiership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who just assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after securing the leadership of the governing LDP, made her international debut at the recent ASEAN meeting.

But, her upcoming talks with the former president is regarded as the true challenge that will establish the direction for coming bilateral relations.

Handling Internal and Global Pressures

The prime minister deals with a potentially shaky government landscape, having formed a partnership that leaves her two seats away of a majority in the powerful chamber of parliament.

Consequently, her administration will depend on opposition MPs to approve laws, introducing a layer of difficulty to her governance.

Common Views and Differing Policies

Takaichi holds Trump's suspicion of Chinese defense activities in the Asia-Pacific, yet both countries have experienced issues from Trump's "US-first" economic approach.

Lately, the former president oversaw a truce agreement between Thai and Cambodia forces during the initial leg of his Asian tour.

Military Expansion and Spending Commitments

Takaichi has expressed her determination to speed up Japan's military build-up, planning to increase military spending to 2% of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This step aligns with a long-held request from the former US leader and signifies the biggest defense expansion for the nation since the WWII.

Security Cooperation and Strains

The country has also moved to obtain "counterstrike" abilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the United States, and plans to use domestically developed longer-range missiles.

But, the two-way defense treaty remains a point of tension, with Trump previously suggesting that Japan should pay more for hosting American forces on its territory.

Trade Expectations and Talks

Not many expect major agreements on trade matters during the visit, especially after recent tariff adjustments offered a degree of ease to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is expected to pursue further relief by promising greater purchases of American products, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and gas.

Personal Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The importance Trump attributes to personal rapport could work in Takaichi's favor, given her strong relationship with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was one of his preferred international figures.

He was the first international leader to meet Trump after his election, and the pair developed a strong relationship over shared activities such as the sport.

Upcoming Schedule and Regional Implications

The former president's visit to Japan will begin with a meeting with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

It will be succeeded by discussions with the PM at the state guest house, the very venue where he met with the former leader in previous years.

Afterward, the former president will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is set to meet Chinese president Xi.