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Japan's newly elected leader, Sanae Takaichi, is set to undertake her primary diplomatic examination as she sits down with former US President Trump for high-stakes discussions in Tokyo.

The focus of their encounter is anticipated to revolve around trade and security matters, marking a pivotal moment for Japan's ties with its influential partner.

The Historic Premiership and Global Introduction

Takaichi, who recently became Japan's initial woman prime minister after securing the top position of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, made her global introduction at the latest Asean meeting.

But, her forthcoming talks with Trump is seen as the real test that will establish the direction for future two-way relations.

Handling Domestic and International Challenges

Takaichi confronts a potentially unstable government landscape, having formed a partnership that leaves her a couple of votes away of a majority in the powerful lower house of the Diet.

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

Shared Views and Differing Policies

She holds Trump's wariness of Chinese military activities in the region, yet both countries have faced challenges from Trump's "America-first" economic approach.

Recently, Trump oversaw a ceasefire deal between Thailand and Cambodian authorities on the first leg of his Asian visit.

Military Build-up and Spending Pledges

The leader has stated her determination to accelerate Japan's military expansion, planning to increase defense spending to 2% of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This move matches a long-held request from the former US leader and signifies the biggest defense expansion for Japan since the Second World War.

Security Partnership and Strains

The country has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the US, and intends to use locally made extended-range systems.

But, the bilateral defense treaty is still a source of tension, with Trump earlier suggesting that Japan should contribute more for stationing American forces on its soil.

Economic Expectations and Talks

Not many expect significant agreements on economic matters during the visit, particularly after recent tariff changes offered a degree of relief to the country's export sector.

Takaichi is likely to pursue further relief by promising greater purchases of US products, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Abe Link

The value Trump places on individual rapport could work in Takaichi's advantage, given her close relationship with the late ex-leader Abe, who was one of his favorite world leaders.

Abe was the initial foreign leader to meet the then president-elect after his victory, and the pair developed a close relationship over shared activities such as the sport.

Upcoming Agenda and Regional Significance

Trump's visit to the country will start with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the royal residence in the capital.

This will be followed by discussions with Takaichi at the official residence, the same venue where Trump held talks with the former leader in previous years.

Subsequently, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the APEC summit, where he is set to engage with Chinese leader Xi.