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The nation's freshly appointed prime minister, Takaichi, is set to face her first major diplomatic test as she engages with former US President Donald Trump for crucial discussions in the Japanese capital.

The agenda of their meeting is anticipated to center on economic and defense topics, marking a pivotal moment for Tokyo's ties with its powerful ally.

A Notable Premiership and Global Debut

The new PM, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female prime minister after securing the top position of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, had her global debut at the recent Asean meeting.

But, her forthcoming talks with Trump is considered the real test that will set the tone for future bilateral cooperation.

Handling Domestic and Global Pressures

Takaichi faces a possibly unstable political landscape, having established a partnership that leaves her a couple of votes short of a majority in the powerful lower house of parliament.

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

Shared Views and Diverging Interests

Takaichi shares the former president's suspicion of China's defense presence in the Asia-Pacific, but both nations have experienced challenges from his "US-first" economic approach.

Lately, the former president oversaw a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia authorities during the initial stage of his Asian visit.

Defense Expansion and Budget Pledges

Takaichi has stated her determination to speed up Japan's military expansion, planning to increase defense spending to two percent of GDP by the end of March.

This step matches a long-held request from the former US leader and represents the largest military expansion for the nation since the WWII.

Security Partnership and Strains

The country has also moved to acquire "counterstrike" abilities, including cruise missiles from the United States, and plans to use domestically developed extended-range systems.

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

Economic Outlook and Talks

Few expect significant agreements on trade matters this week, especially after recent duty adjustments offered some ease to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is likely to seek further benefits by promising increased acquisitions of American goods, including vehicles, soybeans, and gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Link

The importance Trump attributes to personal rapport could benefit Takaichi's advantage, given her strong relationship with the late former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was among his favorite international figures.

He was the first international leader to visit Trump after his election, and the pair built a strong bond over shared activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Schedule and International Significance

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

It will be followed by talks with the PM at the official residence, the very venue where Trump met with Abe in 2019.

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