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The nation's newly elected leader, Sanae Takaichi, is ready to confront her first major foreign policy examination as she sits down with former US President Donald Trump for crucial discussions in Tokyo.

The focus of their encounter is likely to revolve around economic and security topics, signaling a critical moment for Tokyo's relationship with its powerful ally.

The Significant Leadership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who recently assumed the role of Japan's initial woman prime minister after securing the leadership of the ruling LDP, had her international debut at the recent Asean summit.

But, her upcoming talks with Trump is considered the true challenge that will establish the direction for coming two-way cooperation.

Managing Internal and International Challenges

Takaichi confronts a possibly shaky government situation, having formed a coalition that leaves her two seats away of a controlling number in the powerful lower house of the Diet.

Consequently, her administration will rely on opposition lawmakers to pass laws, introducing a element of complexity to her governance.

Shared Perspectives and Diverging Interests

She holds the former president's suspicion of China's defense activities in the Asia-Pacific, but both nations have faced issues from his "America-first" economic approach.

Lately, Trump oversaw a truce agreement between Thailand and Cambodia forces during the initial leg of his Asia tour.

Military Build-up and Budget Pledges

The leader has expressed her determination to speed up Japan's defense expansion, aiming to raise military 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 represents the biggest military buildup for the nation since the WWII.

Security Cooperation and Tensions

The country has also taken steps to obtain "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise missiles from the United States, and intends to deploy locally made longer-range missiles.

But, the two-way security agreement is still a point of strain, with Trump previously stating that the nation should pay more for hosting US forces on its territory.

Trade Expectations and Talks

Few expect significant agreements on trade issues during the visit, particularly after recent tariff changes offered some relief to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is expected to pursue further benefits by promising increased purchases of US goods, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and natural gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Abe Connection

The value the former president places on individual rapport could work in Takaichi's advantage, given her close ties with the late ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of Trump's preferred international figures.

He was the first international leader to meet Trump after his victory, and the two developed a close bond over shared interests such as golf.

Forthcoming Agenda and International Significance

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

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

Afterward, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec summit, where he is set to engage with China's president Xi Jinping.