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The nation's freshly appointed leader, Takaichi, is set to undertake her initial significant diplomatic examination as she meets former US President Trump for important talks in Tokyo.

Attention of their encounter is likely to focus on economic and security issues, marking a critical juncture for Tokyo's ties with its powerful ally.

The Historic Leadership and International Debut

Takaichi, who just became Japan's first female leader after securing the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had her international debut at the latest Asean meeting.

But, her forthcoming talks with the former president is seen as the real challenge that will set the tone for coming bilateral relations.

Navigating Domestic and International Challenges

The prime minister faces a potentially shaky political landscape, having formed a coalition that puts her two seats away of a majority in the powerful lower house of parliament.

This means, her administration will rely on other lawmakers to pass laws, adding a layer of difficulty to her leadership.

Shared Views and Diverging Policies

She holds Trump's suspicion of China's defense presence in the region, but each nations have faced issues from Trump's "America-first" economic policies.

Recently, Trump facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodian forces during the first stage of his Asia visit.

Defense Expansion and Spending Pledges

Takaichi has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's military expansion, planning to raise military expenditure to 2% of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This move matches a longstanding demand from Trump and signifies the biggest defense buildup for the nation since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

Japan has also taken steps to acquire "retaliatory" abilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the US, and intends to deploy domestically developed extended-range missiles.

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

Economic Outlook and Talks

Not many anticipate major concessions on economic matters this week, especially after latest duty adjustments offered a degree of ease to Japan's economy.

The PM is expected to pursue additional benefits by promising greater acquisitions of American products, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Abe Connection

The importance Trump places on individual rapport could work in Takaichi's favor, given her strong relationship with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite international figures.

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

Forthcoming Agenda and Regional Implications

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

It will be succeeded by discussions with the PM at the state guest house, the very location where Trump met with the former leader in previous years.

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