Japan's New Prime Minister Hopes to Benefit from Shinzo Abe's Connection in Key Discussions with Trump.

The nation's recently chosen prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is ready to undertake her primary diplomatic test as she meets ex-President Donald Trump for important discussions in the Japanese capital.

The agenda of their meeting is anticipated to revolve around trade and security issues, marking a critical moment for Japan's ties with its influential partner.

The Significant Premiership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female prime minister after winning the leadership of the governing LDP, made her global introduction at the recent ASEAN summit.

However, her forthcoming meeting with the former president is regarded as the true test that will establish the direction for coming bilateral cooperation.

Navigating Domestic and International Pressures

The prime minister faces a potentially shaky government situation, having formed a partnership that puts her a couple of votes away of a controlling number in the powerful chamber of the Diet.

This means, her government will rely on other lawmakers to approve legislation, introducing a element of complexity to her leadership.

Shared Views and Diverging Policies

Takaichi holds Trump's suspicion of Chinese military activities in the region, but both nations have experienced challenges from Trump's "America-first" economic policies.

Lately, Trump oversaw a truce agreement between Thailand and Cambodia forces during the first stage of his Asian visit.

Defense Build-up and Budget Commitments

Takaichi has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's military build-up, planning to increase defense expenditure to 2% of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This move matches a long-held demand from the former US leader and signifies the largest defense buildup for the nation since the WWII.

Defense Partnership and Strains

The country has also moved to obtain "retaliatory" abilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the US, and intends to use locally made extended-range missiles.

But, the bilateral security agreement remains a point of strain, with Trump earlier suggesting that Japan should pay more for hosting American forces on its territory.

Trade Expectations and Talks

Not many expect major agreements on economic matters this week, particularly after latest tariff adjustments provided some relief to the country's export sector.

The PM is likely to seek further relief by committing to greater acquisitions of US products, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Abe Connection

The importance the former president attributes to individual rapport could work in the PM's favor, given her strong ties with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of his preferred international figures.

Abe was the first international leader to meet Trump after his victory, and the pair built a close relationship over mutual activities such as the sport.

Upcoming Agenda and International Significance

The former president's visit to Japan will start with a meeting with Emperor Naruhito at the royal residence in the capital.

This will be succeeded by discussions with Takaichi at the state guest house, the same venue where he held talks with the former leader in previous years.

Subsequently, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is set to meet China's leader Xi Jinping.