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Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is set to face her first major foreign policy examination as she sits down with former US President Donald Trump for important discussions in the Japanese capital.

The agenda of their meeting is expected to focus on economic and defense issues, marking a pivotal juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its influential partner.

The Historic Leadership and International Debut

Takaichi, who recently became Japan's initial woman leader after securing the top position of the governing LDP, had her international debut at the recent Asean meeting.

But, her forthcoming talks with the former president is regarded as the true challenge that will establish the direction for future bilateral relations.

Handling Internal and Global Challenges

Takaichi deals with a potentially shaky political landscape, having formed a partnership that leaves her two seats away of a controlling number in the influential lower house of parliament.

This means, her administration will depend on other lawmakers to pass legislation, introducing a element of complexity to her governance.

Shared Views and Differing Interests

Takaichi holds Trump's wariness of China's defense activities in the Asia-Pacific, yet each countries have experienced issues from his "US-first" trade policies.

Recently, Trump oversaw a ceasefire deal between Thailand and Cambodian authorities during the first leg of his Asian visit.

Military Expansion and Budget Commitments

The leader has stated her commitment to accelerate Japan's military expansion, aiming to increase military spending to 2% of GDP by the end of March.

This step aligns with a longstanding request from Trump and represents the biggest military buildup for Japan since the Second World War.

Security Cooperation and Tensions

The country has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and intends to deploy domestically developed longer-range systems.

However, the bilateral security treaty remains a point of tension, with the former president earlier suggesting that the nation should contribute more for hosting US forces on its soil.

Economic Expectations and Negotiations

Not many anticipate significant agreements on trade matters during the visit, particularly after recent duty adjustments provided some relief to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is expected to pursue additional relief by committing to greater purchases of US goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Individual Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link

The importance Trump places on individual chemistry could work in the PM's advantage, given her strong ties with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was among his preferred world leaders.

Abe was the first foreign leader to meet Trump after his victory, and the two developed a close relationship over shared activities such as the sport.

Upcoming Schedule and International Implications

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

It will be followed by talks with Takaichi at the state guest house, the same venue where he met with Abe in previous years.

Afterward, Trump will travel to the Republic of Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is scheduled to engage with Chinese leader Xi.