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Japan's recently chosen leader, Takaichi, is preparing to confront her first major diplomatic examination as she sits down with former US President Donald Trump for high-stakes negotiations in the Japanese capital.

Attention of their summit is likely to revolve around trade and defense matters, representing a pivotal moment for Tokyo's ties with its powerful partner.

The Notable Leadership and Global Introduction

Takaichi, who just became Japan's initial woman leader after winning the top position of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, had her global debut at the recent Asean summit.

However, her upcoming talks with Trump is regarded as the true challenge that will establish the direction for coming two-way relations.

Navigating Domestic and Global Challenges

Takaichi faces a possibly unstable political landscape, having formed a coalition that puts her two seats away of a majority in the powerful chamber of parliament.

Consequently, her administration will depend on other MPs to pass legislation, adding a layer of complexity to her leadership.

Common Perspectives and Differing Interests

She shares the former president's wariness of Chinese defense presence in the region, but both countries have faced challenges from Trump's "America-first" trade policies.

Recently, Trump facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia authorities on the first leg of his Asian tour.

Defense Expansion and Budget Commitments

Takaichi has stated her determination to speed up Japan's military expansion, planning to raise military spending to two percent of GDP by the end of March.

This move matches a long-held demand from Trump and signifies the largest defense buildup for Japan since the Second World War.

Security Cooperation and Strains

Japan has also moved to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise missiles from the United States, and plans to deploy locally made longer-range systems.

But, the bilateral security agreement is still a point of strain, with Trump previously stating that Japan should contribute more for stationing US forces on its soil.

Trade Expectations and Talks

Few anticipate major concessions on economic matters this week, particularly after recent duty changes provided some ease to Japan's export sector.

Takaichi is likely to seek further benefits by promising increased acquisitions of American products, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Link

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

He was the initial international leader to visit Trump after his victory, and the pair developed a close bond over mutual activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Agenda and Regional Significance

The former president's visit to Japan will start with a audience with the Emperor at the royal residence in the capital.

It will be followed by talks with Takaichi at the official residence, the same venue where he held talks with the former leader in previous years.

Afterward, Trump will travel to the Republic of Korea for the APEC summit, where he is scheduled to meet Chinese president Xi Jinping.