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The nation's recently chosen leader, Takaichi, is ready to undertake her primary diplomatic test as she engages with ex-President Donald Trump for crucial talks in the Japanese capital.

The focus of their encounter is anticipated to focus on economic and defense topics, representing a critical moment for Tokyo's ties with its powerful partner.

A Historic Leadership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who just assumed the role of Japan's first female prime minister after securing the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, made her international debut at the latest Asean meeting.

However, her upcoming meeting with Trump is considered the true test that will set the tone for coming bilateral relations.

Managing Domestic and Global Challenges

Takaichi deals with a potentially unstable government situation, having formed a coalition that leaves her two seats away of a controlling number in the powerful lower house of parliament.

Consequently, her government will depend on opposition MPs to pass laws, adding a element of complexity to her governance.

Common Views and Differing Policies

She holds the former president's suspicion of Chinese defense activities in the Asia-Pacific, yet each nations have faced issues from his "America-first" economic approach.

Recently, Trump oversaw a truce agreement between Thai and Cambodia authorities on the initial stage of his Asia visit.

Defense Build-up and Spending Commitments

The leader has stated her determination to speed up Japan's defense expansion, planning to increase military spending to two percent of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This step matches a longstanding request from the former US leader and represents the biggest defense buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Defense Cooperation and Strains

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

But, the two-way security treaty is still a point of strain, with Trump earlier stating that Japan should contribute more for stationing US troops on its territory.

Trade Expectations and Negotiations

Few expect major agreements on economic matters this week, especially after latest duty changes offered a degree of ease to the country's economy.

Takaichi is expected to pursue further relief by committing to increased acquisitions of US goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Individual Rapport and the Abe Link

The importance Trump attributes to individual chemistry could work in Takaichi's favor, given her close relationship with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was among his favorite world leaders.

Abe was the initial international figure to meet Trump after his victory, and the pair built a close bond over mutual activities such as golf.

Upcoming Agenda and Regional Significance

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

This will be succeeded by talks with the PM at the official residence, the same location where he met with the former leader in previous years.

Afterward, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec summit, where he is set to engage with China's leader Xi Jinping.