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The nation's newly elected prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is set to undertake her primary diplomatic challenge as she engages with ex-President Donald Trump for high-stakes discussions in Tokyo.

Attention of their encounter is likely to center on economic and security issues, representing a key moment for Japan's ties with its powerful partner.

The Significant Leadership and Global Debut

Takaichi, who just assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after securing the top position of the governing LDP, made her global debut at the recent ASEAN summit.

But, her forthcoming talks with the former president is regarded as the true test that will establish the direction for coming two-way cooperation.

Managing Internal and Global Pressures

Takaichi deals with a possibly shaky political situation, having formed a partnership that puts her two seats short of a controlling number in the influential chamber of parliament.

This means, her administration will rely on opposition lawmakers to pass legislation, introducing a element of complexity to her leadership.

Shared Views and Diverging Interests

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of China's military activities in the Asia-Pacific, yet each countries have experienced challenges from his "America-first" trade approach.

Lately, the former president oversaw a truce agreement between Thailand and Cambodia authorities on the first leg of his Asia tour.

Defense Build-up and Spending Pledges

The leader has stated her commitment to speed up Japan's defense expansion, aiming to increase defense spending to two percent of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This step aligns with a longstanding request from Trump and signifies the largest military expansion for Japan since the Second World War.

Defense Cooperation and Tensions

Japan has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" abilities, including cruise weapons from the United States, and plans to deploy domestically developed extended-range systems.

However, the two-way security treaty remains a source of strain, with the former president earlier stating that the nation should contribute more for hosting US forces on its soil.

Trade Outlook and Negotiations

Not many anticipate major agreements on economic matters during the visit, especially after recent duty changes provided some relief to the country's export sector.

The PM is expected to pursue further benefits by committing to increased acquisitions of American products, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and gas.

Individual Rapport and the Abe Connection

The importance Trump attributes to personal chemistry could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her strong ties with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was among his favorite international figures.

Abe was the initial foreign figure to meet the then president-elect after his victory, and the pair developed a strong relationship over shared interests such as golf.

Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Implications

The former president's visit to the country will begin with a audience with the Emperor at the royal residence in Tokyo.

It will be followed by talks with Takaichi at the official residence, the very location where Trump held talks with Abe in previous years.

Subsequently, Trump will travel to the Republic of Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is set to meet China's leader Xi.