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Japan's newly elected prime minister, Takaichi, is set to face her initial significant foreign policy challenge as she meets former US President Trump for crucial negotiations in Tokyo.

The agenda of their summit is likely to center on economic and defense matters, signaling a critical juncture for Tokyo's ties with its powerful ally.

A Notable Premiership and Global Introduction

Takaichi, who recently became Japan's initial woman leader after winning the top position of the ruling LDP, made her international debut at the recent ASEAN summit.

But, her upcoming talks with the former president is considered the real challenge that will set the tone for future bilateral cooperation.

Handling Domestic and International Pressures

The prime minister deals with a potentially unstable government situation, having established a partnership that puts her two seats short of a controlling number in the influential lower house of parliament.

Consequently, her government will rely on other lawmakers to pass legislation, introducing a element of complexity to her governance.

Common Perspectives and Differing Policies

Takaichi holds Trump's wariness of China's defense presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet both countries have experienced challenges from his "America-first" trade approach.

Recently, Trump oversaw a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodian authorities during the initial stage of his Asian tour.

Military Build-up and Spending Commitments

Takaichi has stated her commitment to speed up Japan's military expansion, aiming to increase military expenditure to two percent of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This step aligns with a longstanding request from the former US leader and represents the largest defense buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

Japan has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the United States, and intends to deploy domestically developed longer-range systems.

But, the two-way defense treaty is still a source of strain, with Trump earlier stating that Japan should pay more for hosting US forces on its territory.

Economic Outlook and Negotiations

Few anticipate major concessions on trade matters this week, especially after recent tariff changes offered a degree of ease to the country's economy.

Takaichi is expected to seek additional relief by committing to increased purchases of American goods, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Rapport and the Abe Connection

The importance the former president places on individual chemistry could benefit the PM's favor, given her close relationship with assassinated former prime minister Abe, who was among Trump's preferred international figures.

Abe was the first foreign figure to meet Trump after his election, and the pair built a close relationship over shared interests such as the sport.

Upcoming Agenda and Regional Significance

The former president's trip to the country will start with a audience with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

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 summit, where he is set to engage with Chinese president Xi.