Japan's New Prime Minister Seeks to Leverage Shinzo Abe's Legacy in Important Discussions with Trump.

The nation's freshly appointed leader, Sanae Takaichi, is ready to undertake her initial significant foreign policy examination as she meets ex-President Donald Trump for crucial talks in Tokyo.

The focus of their meeting is likely to revolve around economic and security matters, marking a critical juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its influential ally.

The Historic Premiership and International Debut

Takaichi, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after winning the top position of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had her international introduction at the recent Asean meeting.

However, her upcoming meeting with the former president is seen as the true test that will establish the direction for future two-way relations.

Managing Internal and International Pressures

Takaichi faces a possibly shaky political situation, having established a coalition that leaves her a couple of votes short of a majority in the powerful chamber of parliament.

This means, her government will depend on other MPs to pass laws, adding a layer of difficulty to her governance.

Shared Perspectives and Diverging Policies

Takaichi shares the former president's suspicion of China's defense presence in the Asia-Pacific, but both countries have faced challenges from his "America-first" trade approach.

Lately, the former president facilitated a truce deal between Thailand and Cambodian forces during the first stage of his Asia visit.

Military Expansion and Budget Commitments

Takaichi has stated her determination to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, aiming to increase military expenditure to 2% of gross domestic product by the end of March.

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

Defense Cooperation and Tensions

The country has also taken steps to obtain "counterstrike" capabilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the US, and intends to deploy domestically developed extended-range missiles.

But, the bilateral security treaty is still a source of strain, with the former president previously stating that Japan should pay more for stationing US forces on its territory.

Trade Outlook and Negotiations

Few expect major concessions on trade matters this week, especially after recent duty changes offered a degree of relief to the country's export sector.

Takaichi is likely to seek further relief by committing to increased purchases of US goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Rapport and the Abe Connection

The value Trump attributes to individual chemistry could work in the PM's advantage, given her strong relationship with assassinated former prime minister Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite world leaders.

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

Upcoming Schedule and International Significance

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

It will be followed by discussions with the PM at the state guest house, the same location where Trump held talks with the former leader in previous years.

Subsequently, the former president will travel to South Korea for the Apec summit, where he is set to meet Chinese leader Xi.