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Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is ready to confront her primary foreign policy examination as she meets ex-President Trump for crucial negotiations in the Japanese capital.

The agenda of their encounter is likely to revolve around economic and defense topics, marking a pivotal moment for Tokyo's relationship with its influential ally.

A Historic Premiership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after securing the top position of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, had her international introduction at the latest ASEAN meeting.

But, her forthcoming meeting with the former president is seen as the true challenge that will establish the direction for future two-way relations.

Handling Domestic and International Challenges

Takaichi confronts a possibly shaky government landscape, having established a coalition that leaves her a couple of votes short of a controlling number in the influential lower house of parliament.

This means, her administration will rely on other lawmakers to approve legislation, adding a element of difficulty to her leadership.

Shared Perspectives and Differing Interests

Takaichi holds Trump's suspicion of China's defense presence in the region, but both countries have faced challenges from Trump's "US-first" trade policies.

Lately, the former president facilitated a truce deal between Thai and Cambodian authorities during the first leg of his Asian visit.

Military Build-up and Budget Commitments

The leader has expressed her commitment to accelerate Japan's defense expansion, planning to increase military spending to 2% of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This move aligns with a long-held demand from the former US leader and signifies the biggest military buildup for the nation since the Second World War.

Security Partnership and Tensions

Japan has also moved to obtain "retaliatory" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and intends to deploy locally made extended-range missiles.

But, the bilateral security treaty is still a source of tension, with the former president earlier suggesting that the nation should contribute more for stationing US forces on its soil.

Economic Outlook and Talks

Few expect significant concessions on economic matters this week, particularly after latest tariff changes offered some ease to the country's export sector.

The PM is likely to seek additional relief by promising greater purchases of American goods, including vehicles, soybeans, and gas.

Personal Rapport and the Abe Link

The importance Trump attributes to personal chemistry could benefit the PM's advantage, given her strong ties with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was one of Trump's preferred international figures.

Abe was the initial foreign figure to visit Trump after his election, and the pair built a close bond over mutual interests such as golf.

Upcoming Schedule and Regional Implications

Trump's trip to Japan will begin with a meeting with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

It will be succeeded by discussions with the PM at the state guest house, the same venue where he met with the former leader in previous years.

Afterward, the former president will travel to South Korea for the APEC summit, where he is scheduled to meet China's leader Xi Jinping.