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The nation's newly elected leader, Sanae Takaichi, is ready to face her first major diplomatic challenge as she engages with ex-President Donald Trump for crucial talks in Tokyo.

The focus of their encounter is anticipated to focus on trade and security matters, signaling a key moment for Japan's ties with its powerful ally.

The Notable Leadership and Global Debut

Takaichi, who just became Japan's initial woman leader after securing the top position of the governing LDP, had her global introduction at the latest Asean summit.

However, her upcoming talks with Trump is considered the real test that will set the tone for future two-way cooperation.

Managing Internal and International Challenges

The prime minister deals with a possibly unstable political situation, having formed a partnership that leaves her a couple of votes away of a controlling number in the influential lower house of the Diet.

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

Common Perspectives and Differing Policies

Takaichi shares the former president's suspicion of China's military activities in the Asia-Pacific, but both nations have experienced challenges from Trump's "US-first" economic policies.

Lately, Trump oversaw a ceasefire deal between Thai and Cambodia forces during the initial leg of his Asian visit.

Defense Build-up and Spending Commitments

The leader has stated her determination to speed up Japan's military build-up, planning to increase military expenditure to two percent of GDP by the end of March.

This move matches a longstanding request from Trump and represents the largest defense expansion for the nation since the Second World War.

Defense Cooperation and Strains

Japan has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the US, and plans to use locally made longer-range systems.

However, the bilateral defense treaty is still a point of tension, with the former president earlier stating that the nation should contribute more for hosting American forces on its territory.

Economic Expectations and Negotiations

Not many expect significant agreements on trade matters this week, especially after recent tariff adjustments offered a degree of relief to Japan's export sector.

The PM is likely to pursue further benefits by committing to increased acquisitions of US goods, including vehicles, soybeans, and natural gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Link

The value the former president places on individual rapport could work in the PM's favor, given her strong relationship with the late former prime minister Abe, who was among his favorite world leaders.

He was the initial foreign leader to visit the then president-elect after his election, and the pair developed a close bond over mutual interests such as golf.

Upcoming Schedule and Regional Implications

Trump's trip to the country will begin with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the royal residence in Tokyo.

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

Afterward, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is set to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping.