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Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to face her first major diplomatic examination as she engages with former US President Donald Trump for crucial discussions in Tokyo.

Attention of their meeting is expected to focus on economic and security issues, representing a key juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its influential ally.

A Significant Premiership and Global Debut

The new PM, who recently became Japan's first female prime minister after winning the leadership of the governing LDP, made her international debut at the recent ASEAN meeting.

But, her upcoming talks with the former president is seen as the real test that will set the tone for future two-way cooperation.

Handling Internal and International Pressures

Takaichi deals with a possibly shaky government landscape, having formed a coalition that puts her a couple of votes short of a controlling number in the powerful lower house of parliament.

This means, her administration will depend on opposition lawmakers to approve laws, adding a element of difficulty to her governance.

Shared Perspectives and Diverging Interests

Takaichi shares the former president's suspicion of Chinese defense presence in the region, but both countries have experienced challenges from Trump's "America-first" economic policies.

Lately, Trump oversaw a ceasefire deal between Thailand and Cambodia forces on the initial leg of his Asian tour.

Defense Build-up and Spending Pledges

The leader has stated her commitment to accelerate Japan's military expansion, aiming to increase defense expenditure to 2% of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

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

Security Cooperation and Tensions

Japan has also moved to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the US, and plans to deploy domestically developed extended-range systems.

However, the bilateral defense treaty is still a source of strain, with the former president previously stating that Japan should contribute more for hosting US forces on its soil.

Trade Expectations and Talks

Not many expect major agreements on economic matters during the visit, especially after latest duty adjustments provided a degree of relief to Japan's economy.

The PM is likely to pursue additional benefits by committing to greater purchases of US goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Abe Connection

The importance Trump places on personal chemistry could benefit the PM's favor, given her close relationship with the late ex-leader Abe, who was among his favorite world leaders.

Abe was the first foreign leader to visit the then president-elect after his victory, and the pair built a close bond over shared interests such as golf.

Upcoming Agenda and Regional Significance

Trump's trip to Japan will start with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

It will be followed by discussions with the PM at the official residence, the same venue where Trump held talks with the former leader in 2019.

Afterward, Trump will travel to the Republic of Korea for the APEC summit, where he is scheduled to meet Chinese president Xi Jinping.