Japan's Recently Appointed Prime Minister Seeks to Leverage Shinzo Abe's Legacy in Key Discussions with Trump.

The nation's recently chosen prime minister, Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her primary diplomatic examination as she meets former US President Trump for important negotiations in Tokyo.

The agenda of their meeting is likely to focus on trade and security issues, marking a critical moment for Tokyo's relationship with its influential partner.

The Notable Premiership and Global Introduction

The new PM, who recently became Japan's first female prime minister after securing the leadership of the ruling LDP, made her international debut at the recent Asean summit.

But, her forthcoming meeting with the former president is regarded as the real test that will establish the direction for future two-way cooperation.

Navigating Internal and Global Pressures

The prime minister faces a possibly shaky government landscape, having formed a partnership that leaves her two seats away of a controlling number in the influential chamber of parliament.

Consequently, her administration will depend on opposition MPs to approve legislation, adding a element of complexity to her governance.

Common Perspectives and Differing Policies

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

Lately, Trump facilitated a truce deal between Thailand and Cambodia forces on the first leg of his Asian tour.

Military Expansion and Budget Pledges

The leader has stated her determination to accelerate Japan's military build-up, planning to raise defense expenditure to two percent of GDP by the end of March.

This move aligns with a long-held demand from the former US leader and represents the biggest defense expansion for Japan since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

The country has also moved to obtain "retaliatory" capabilities, including cruise missiles from the United States, and intends to use locally made extended-range missiles.

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

Trade Outlook and Talks

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

The PM is likely to pursue further benefits by committing to increased purchases of US products, including vehicles, soybeans, and gas.

Individual Rapport and the Abe Link

The value the former president places on individual chemistry could benefit Takaichi's advantage, given her close relationship with the late former prime minister Abe, who was among his favorite world leaders.

He was the initial foreign figure to meet the then president-elect after his election, and the two built a strong bond over mutual activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Agenda and Regional Significance

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

It will be followed by talks with the PM at the state guest house, the very location where Trump met with the former leader in previous years.

Subsequently, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is scheduled to engage with China's leader Xi.