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

Japan's newly elected prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to confront her initial significant foreign policy examination as she meets ex-President Donald Trump for important negotiations in the Japanese capital.

The agenda of their summit is likely to focus on trade and defense matters, representing a pivotal juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its powerful ally.

The Significant Leadership and International Debut

The new PM, who recently became Japan's initial woman leader after winning the top position of the governing LDP, had her global debut at the recent ASEAN summit.

But, her forthcoming meeting with Trump is regarded as the true challenge that will set the tone for coming two-way cooperation.

Navigating Domestic and Global Challenges

Takaichi faces a possibly shaky government situation, having formed a partnership that leaves her two seats short of a controlling number in the powerful chamber of the Diet.

Consequently, her government will rely on opposition MPs to approve legislation, adding a element of complexity to her leadership.

Common Views and Differing Policies

Takaichi shares the former president's suspicion of Chinese military activities in the Asia-Pacific, yet each countries have experienced issues from Trump's "US-first" economic policies.

Lately, the former president facilitated a truce agreement between Thailand and Cambodian forces during the initial leg of his Asia tour.

Defense Build-up and Budget Commitments

The leader has stated her determination to speed up Japan's military build-up, planning to raise military spending to two percent of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This move aligns with a longstanding request from Trump and represents the biggest military buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Security Partnership and Strains

Japan has also moved to obtain "counterstrike" abilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the United States, and intends to deploy domestically developed longer-range systems.

But, the bilateral security agreement remains a source of strain, with Trump previously stating that the nation should pay more for hosting US forces on its territory.

Trade Expectations and Negotiations

Not many expect major agreements on economic matters this week, particularly after latest duty adjustments provided some relief to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is likely to pursue additional relief by committing to increased acquisitions of American goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Individual Rapport and the Abe Connection

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

He was the initial international figure to visit Trump after his election, and the two built a close relationship over mutual activities such as the sport.

Upcoming Schedule and International Implications

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

This will be followed by discussions with Takaichi at the state guest house, the same location where Trump held talks with the former leader in 2019.

Afterward, the former president will travel to South Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is scheduled to meet China's leader Xi Jinping.