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Japan's newly elected prime minister, Takaichi, is set to undertake her first major foreign policy test as she meets former US President Trump for high-stakes discussions in the Japanese capital.

Attention of their meeting is expected to focus on economic and security matters, representing a key juncture for Japan's ties with its powerful ally.

The Historic Leadership and Global Debut

The new PM, who just became Japan's initial woman leader after winning the top position of the ruling LDP, made her global debut at the latest ASEAN meeting.

But, her upcoming talks with Trump is seen as the real test that will establish the direction for coming bilateral relations.

Navigating Domestic and Global Challenges

The prime minister faces a potentially unstable political situation, having established a coalition that puts her a couple of votes away of a majority in the influential chamber of parliament.

Consequently, her government will depend on opposition lawmakers to pass laws, adding a layer of difficulty to her leadership.

Shared Perspectives and Differing Policies

She shares Trump's suspicion of China's military presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet each countries have experienced issues from his "America-first" trade policies.

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

Military Build-up and Budget Pledges

Takaichi has expressed her commitment to accelerate Japan's defense expansion, planning to increase military expenditure to two percent of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This step matches a longstanding request from Trump and represents the biggest military buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Defense Cooperation and Tensions

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

But, the two-way security treaty is still a point of strain, with the former president earlier stating that Japan should contribute more for stationing American troops on its territory.

Economic Outlook and Negotiations

Not many anticipate significant agreements on economic matters during the visit, particularly after latest duty adjustments offered a degree of relief to Japan's economy.

The PM is expected to seek additional benefits by promising greater acquisitions of American products, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Abe Connection

The importance the former president places on individual chemistry could work in the PM's advantage, given her close ties with the late ex-leader Abe, who was among Trump's favorite world leaders.

Abe was the first foreign leader to meet Trump after his election, and the two developed a strong bond over shared interests such as golf.

Upcoming Agenda and Regional Implications

The former president's visit to the country will begin with a audience with the Emperor at the royal residence in the capital.

This will be followed by discussions with the PM at the state guest house, the same venue where Trump held talks with Abe in 2019.

Subsequently, the former president will proceed to South Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is set to engage with China's leader Xi.