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Japan's newly elected leader, Sanae Takaichi, is ready to confront her initial significant diplomatic examination as she meets former US President Trump for crucial negotiations in Tokyo.

The focus of their meeting is likely to focus on trade and defense issues, marking a critical juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its influential ally.

The Notable Premiership and Global Introduction

Takaichi, who recently assumed the role of Japan's initial woman leader after winning the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, made her international debut at the latest Asean meeting.

But, her upcoming meeting with the former president is regarded as the true challenge that will set the tone for coming bilateral relations.

Handling Internal and International Challenges

The prime minister deals with a possibly shaky government landscape, having established a partnership that puts her a couple of votes away of a controlling number in the powerful chamber of the Diet.

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

Shared Views and Diverging Policies

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of Chinese defense presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet each countries have faced issues from his "America-first" trade policies.

Recently, Trump oversaw a ceasefire deal between Thailand and Cambodia forces during the initial leg of his Asia visit.

Military Build-up and Budget Pledges

Takaichi has stated her commitment to speed up Japan's military build-up, planning to raise defense spending to two percent of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This step aligns with a longstanding demand from Trump and signifies the largest defense buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Security Partnership and Tensions

Japan has also moved to acquire "counterstrike" abilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the United States, and intends to deploy locally made longer-range missiles.

But, the two-way security agreement is still a point of strain, with Trump earlier suggesting that the nation should pay more for stationing American forces on its territory.

Trade Expectations and Negotiations

Few anticipate major concessions on trade issues during the visit, especially after latest tariff changes provided a degree of ease to the country's economy.

Takaichi is likely to seek additional relief by promising greater acquisitions of US goods, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Link

The value Trump places on individual chemistry could work in Takaichi's favor, given her strong ties with the late ex-leader Abe, who was one of his preferred international figures.

Abe was the initial international leader to meet the then president-elect after his victory, and the two developed a close relationship over mutual activities such as golf.

Forthcoming Schedule and International Implications

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

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

Subsequently, the former president will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is scheduled to meet Chinese president Xi Jinping.