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Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is ready to undertake her primary diplomatic challenge as she engages with former US President Donald Trump for high-stakes discussions in Tokyo.

The focus of their encounter is anticipated to revolve around economic and defense issues, marking a pivotal moment for Tokyo's ties with its influential partner.

The Significant Premiership and Global Introduction

The new PM, who just assumed the role of Japan's initial woman prime minister after winning the leadership of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, had her international introduction at the latest ASEAN meeting.

However, her forthcoming talks with Trump is seen as the true challenge that will set the tone for future two-way cooperation.

Handling Domestic and Global Challenges

Takaichi confronts a possibly shaky government situation, having formed a partnership that leaves her a couple of votes short of a controlling number in the powerful lower house of parliament.

This means, her administration will depend on other MPs to approve laws, introducing a element of difficulty to her leadership.

Shared Perspectives and Diverging Policies

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of Chinese military presence in the region, but both nations have faced issues from Trump's "US-first" economic approach.

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

Military Build-up and Budget Pledges

Takaichi has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, aiming to increase military spending to 2% of GDP by the end of March.

This move aligns with a longstanding request from the former US leader and represents the biggest military buildup for Japan since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Strains

The country has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and intends to deploy domestically developed longer-range systems.

But, the bilateral security treaty remains a source of tension, with Trump previously stating that Japan should contribute more for stationing American forces on its soil.

Trade Expectations and Negotiations

Few anticipate significant agreements on trade matters this week, particularly after latest duty adjustments provided some relief to Japan's economy.

The PM is likely to seek further benefits by promising increased purchases of American goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Individual Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The importance the former president attributes to personal rapport could benefit the PM's favor, given her strong ties with assassinated former prime minister Abe, who was one of his favorite international figures.

Abe was the first foreign figure to visit Trump after his victory, and the two built a strong bond over mutual activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Schedule and International Implications

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

It will be succeeded by discussions with the PM at the official residence, the very location where Trump held talks with Abe in 2019.

Afterward, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec summit, where he is set to engage with Chinese president Xi.