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The nation's freshly appointed leader, Sanae Takaichi, is set to face her primary diplomatic examination as she sits down with former US President Donald Trump for high-stakes discussions in Tokyo.

The agenda of their summit is likely to revolve around trade and defense matters, representing a pivotal juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its influential ally.

A Historic Premiership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who just became Japan's initial woman leader after winning the top position of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, had her global introduction at the latest Asean meeting.

However, her upcoming talks with Trump is regarded as the true test that will set the tone for future two-way relations.

Managing Domestic and Global Challenges

Takaichi deals with a possibly unstable political situation, having formed a partnership that puts her two seats short of a controlling number in the influential lower house of parliament.

Consequently, her government will rely on other lawmakers to pass laws, adding a layer of difficulty to her governance.

Shared Views and Diverging Policies

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of China's military presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet each nations have experienced challenges from Trump's "US-first" trade approach.

Recently, Trump oversaw a ceasefire deal between Thai and Cambodia authorities during the first leg of his Asia visit.

Military Expansion and Budget Pledges

Takaichi has stated her commitment to speed up Japan's defense build-up, planning to raise military expenditure to 2% of GDP by the end of March.

This move matches a long-held demand from Trump and represents the biggest defense expansion for the nation since the WWII.

Security Partnership and Tensions

Japan has also taken steps to obtain "retaliatory" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the United States, and intends to use domestically developed extended-range missiles.

However, the two-way security agreement remains a source of strain, with the former president earlier suggesting that Japan should contribute more for stationing US troops on its territory.

Trade Expectations and Negotiations

Few anticipate significant concessions on economic issues this week, particularly after latest duty changes offered a degree of relief to the country's export sector.

Takaichi is likely to seek additional benefits by committing to greater purchases of US goods, including vehicles, soybeans, and natural gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The value the former president places on individual chemistry could benefit the PM's advantage, given her strong ties with assassinated former prime minister Abe, who was among his preferred world leaders.

He was the initial foreign leader to visit Trump after his victory, and the pair developed a strong bond over mutual activities such as golf.

Upcoming Agenda and Regional Significance

Trump's visit to Japan will begin with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

It will be succeeded by discussions with the PM at the state guest house, the same location where Trump met with the former leader in 2019.

Subsequently, the former president will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is set to engage with Chinese leader Xi.