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The nation's newly elected leader, Sanae Takaichi, is set to face her first major foreign policy test as she meets ex-President Donald Trump for important talks in Tokyo.

The focus of their summit is expected to center on economic and defense topics, marking a pivotal moment for Japan's relationship with its influential ally.

The Historic Leadership and International Introduction

The new PM, who recently became Japan's initial woman prime minister after securing the top position of the governing LDP, made her global introduction at the latest ASEAN meeting.

But, her upcoming talks with the former president is seen as the true test that will establish the direction for coming bilateral relations.

Navigating Domestic and Global Pressures

Takaichi confronts a possibly shaky political situation, having formed a coalition that puts her a couple of votes short of a controlling number in the powerful chamber of parliament.

Consequently, her government will rely on opposition MPs to approve legislation, adding a element of complexity to her governance.

Common Views and Differing Policies

She shares Trump's suspicion of China's military activities in the region, but both nations have faced issues from Trump's "US-first" trade policies.

Recently, Trump facilitated a truce agreement between Thailand and Cambodia authorities on the initial leg of his Asian visit.

Defense Build-up and Spending Pledges

Takaichi has stated her commitment to accelerate Japan's military build-up, planning to increase military spending to 2% of GDP by the end of March.

This step matches a longstanding request from Trump and represents the biggest defense buildup for Japan since the Second World War.

Security Cooperation and Strains

The country has also moved to obtain "retaliatory" capabilities, including cruise missiles from the US, and plans to use domestically developed extended-range systems.

But, the two-way defense treaty remains a source of strain, with the former president earlier stating that the nation should contribute more for hosting US troops on its territory.

Economic Expectations and Negotiations

Not many expect significant agreements on trade issues during the visit, particularly after recent tariff adjustments provided some relief to Japan's export sector.

The PM is likely to pursue further benefits by promising greater acquisitions of US goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The importance Trump places on individual chemistry could work in Takaichi's advantage, given her strong ties with the late ex-leader Abe, who was among his favorite international figures.

Abe was the initial foreign figure to visit the then president-elect after his victory, and the two developed a strong bond over shared interests such as golf.

Upcoming Agenda and Regional Implications

The former president's visit to Japan will start with a meeting with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

This will be succeeded by discussions with the PM at the state guest house, the very location where he met with the former leader in 2019.

Subsequently, the former president will travel to South Korea for the APEC summit, where he is set to engage with China's leader Xi Jinping.