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The nation's freshly appointed prime minister, Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her initial significant foreign policy test as she engages with former US President Trump for crucial talks in Tokyo.

The agenda of their summit is likely to center on economic and defense issues, signaling a critical juncture for Japan's relationship with its influential ally.

A Notable Premiership and International Debut

Takaichi, who just became Japan's initial woman leader after winning the leadership of the ruling LDP, had her international debut at the recent ASEAN summit.

But, her upcoming talks with Trump is seen as the real challenge that will set the tone for future bilateral relations.

Navigating Domestic and Global Challenges

Takaichi confronts a possibly unstable government situation, having formed a partnership that leaves her two seats short of a controlling number in the powerful chamber of parliament.

Consequently, her administration will depend on other lawmakers to approve laws, adding a layer of difficulty to her leadership.

Common Views and Diverging Policies

She holds the former president's wariness of Chinese military activities in the region, but each nations have faced issues from Trump's "America-first" economic approach.

Lately, the former president facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodian forces during the initial stage of his Asian tour.

Defense Expansion and Budget Commitments

Takaichi has expressed her determination to speed up Japan's military expansion, planning to raise military spending to 2% of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This step aligns with a longstanding request from the former US leader and represents the biggest military expansion for Japan since the Second World War.

Security Cooperation and Strains

Japan has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" abilities, including cruise missiles from the US, and plans to use locally made extended-range systems.

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

Trade Outlook and Talks

Not many anticipate significant agreements on economic issues this week, especially after latest duty changes offered some ease to Japan's export sector.

The PM is expected to pursue additional benefits by committing to greater acquisitions of American products, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The importance the former president places on individual chemistry could benefit Takaichi's advantage, given her close ties with the late former prime minister Abe, who was one of his preferred world leaders.

Abe was the initial foreign leader to visit the then president-elect after his victory, and the two built a strong relationship over shared interests such as golf.

Upcoming Schedule and Regional Implications

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

It will be followed by talks with Takaichi at the official residence, the same location where Trump met with the former leader in previous years.

Subsequently, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is set to engage with China's president Xi.