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Japan's newly elected leader, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to confront her first major foreign policy examination as she meets former US President Donald Trump for crucial discussions in Tokyo.

The focus of their encounter is expected to revolve around economic and security matters, marking a critical juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its powerful partner.

A Significant Leadership and International Debut

The new PM, who just assumed the role of Japan's first female prime minister after securing the leadership of the governing LDP, had her global introduction at the recent Asean summit.

But, her upcoming talks with the former president is considered the real test that will establish the direction for coming bilateral cooperation.

Managing Internal and International Challenges

Takaichi confronts a potentially unstable government situation, having established a partnership that leaves her two seats away of a majority in the influential chamber of parliament.

This means, her administration will rely on opposition MPs to pass laws, adding a layer of complexity to her leadership.

Shared Perspectives and Differing Interests

She shares the former president's suspicion of Chinese defense presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet each nations have faced issues from Trump's "America-first" trade policies.

Recently, the former president oversaw a truce agreement between Thai and Cambodia forces on the first leg of his Asian tour.

Defense Build-up and Spending Pledges

Takaichi has expressed her commitment to speed up Japan's military build-up, aiming to increase defense expenditure to two percent of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This step aligns with a longstanding demand from Trump and signifies the biggest military expansion for the nation since the Second World War.

Security Cooperation and Tensions

Japan has also taken steps to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and plans to deploy domestically developed extended-range missiles.

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

Trade Expectations and Talks

Few expect major agreements on trade issues during the visit, particularly after recent tariff adjustments offered some ease to the country's export sector.

Takaichi is expected to seek additional relief by promising greater acquisitions of American goods, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and gas.

Individual Rapport and the Abe Link

The importance Trump attributes to individual chemistry could work in Takaichi's favor, given her strong relationship with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was among Trump's favorite world leaders.

Abe was the first international leader to visit Trump after his victory, and the two built a close relationship over mutual activities such as golf.

Upcoming Schedule and Regional Implications

Trump's visit to Japan will begin with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the royal residence in the capital.

This will be followed by discussions with Takaichi at the state guest house, the same venue where Trump met with Abe in previous years.

Afterward, the former president will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec summit, where he is scheduled to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping.