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Japan's freshly appointed prime minister, Takaichi, is preparing to face her first major foreign policy challenge as she engages with former US President Trump for important discussions in Tokyo.

The focus of their summit is anticipated to focus on economic and defense issues, marking a critical moment for Japan's relationship with its influential partner.

The Significant Leadership and Global Debut

Takaichi, who just became Japan's first female leader after winning the top position of the ruling LDP, made her global introduction at the latest ASEAN meeting.

But, her upcoming meeting with Trump is seen as the real test that will set the tone for future bilateral cooperation.

Handling Domestic and Global Challenges

Takaichi confronts a possibly unstable political situation, having formed a coalition that leaves her two seats away of a majority in the powerful chamber of parliament.

This means, her government will rely on other lawmakers to approve legislation, introducing a element of complexity to her governance.

Shared Perspectives and Differing Policies

Takaichi shares Trump's wariness of Chinese military activities in the region, yet both countries have experienced challenges from Trump's "America-first" economic policies.

Recently, the former president oversaw a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodian forces during the initial stage of his Asian visit.

Defense Expansion and Spending Pledges

The leader has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's military expansion, aiming to raise defense expenditure to 2% of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This step aligns with a long-held demand from Trump and represents the biggest defense buildup for Japan since the Second World War.

Security Partnership and Strains

The country has also taken steps to acquire "retaliatory" abilities, including cruise weapons from the United States, and intends to deploy domestically developed extended-range systems.

But, the bilateral security treaty remains a point of strain, with the former president earlier suggesting that the nation should pay more for hosting American forces on its soil.

Economic Outlook and Talks

Few anticipate significant concessions on trade matters this week, especially after recent duty changes offered a degree of ease to the country's economy.

The PM is expected to pursue additional benefits by committing to increased acquisitions of US goods, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The value the former president attributes to personal rapport could work in the PM's favor, given her strong relationship with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was among Trump's favorite international figures.

He was the first international figure to meet the then president-elect after his victory, and the pair developed a strong bond over shared interests such as golf.

Upcoming Schedule and International Implications

Trump's trip to Japan will start with a meeting with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

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

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