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Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her primary foreign policy examination as she sits down with former US President Donald Trump for important talks in Tokyo.

The focus of their encounter is likely to revolve around economic and security issues, representing a critical juncture for Japan's ties with its powerful ally.

The Significant Leadership and Global Debut

The new PM, who just assumed the role of Japan's initial woman leader after winning the leadership of the ruling LDP, had her international debut at the recent Asean meeting.

However, her upcoming talks with the former president is seen as the real test that will establish the direction for future two-way relations.

Handling Internal and International Pressures

The prime minister faces a possibly unstable political landscape, having formed a coalition that puts her a couple of votes away of a controlling number in the influential lower house of the Diet.

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

Shared Perspectives and Differing Policies

Takaichi holds Trump's wariness of China's defense activities in the Asia-Pacific, yet each nations have experienced issues from Trump's "America-first" trade approach.

Recently, Trump facilitated a truce agreement between Thai and Cambodia forces during the first leg of his Asian visit.

Military Expansion and Spending Pledges

Takaichi has stated her determination to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, aiming to increase military expenditure to two percent of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This step matches a longstanding request from Trump and signifies the largest military buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

Japan has also moved to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the United States, and intends to deploy domestically developed extended-range missiles.

But, the two-way security agreement is still a point of tension, with Trump earlier stating that Japan should contribute more for hosting American troops on its territory.

Trade Outlook and Talks

Not many anticipate significant concessions on trade issues during the visit, particularly after recent duty changes offered a degree of ease to the country's economy.

Takaichi is likely to pursue additional relief by committing to increased acquisitions of American products, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Abe Link

The value Trump attributes to personal chemistry could work in the PM's advantage, given her strong relationship with assassinated former prime minister Abe, who was one of Trump's preferred international figures.

He was the first foreign leader to visit the then president-elect after his election, and the pair developed a close relationship over shared activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Agenda and International Implications

Trump's visit to the country will start with a meeting with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

It will be succeeded by talks with the PM at the state guest house, the very venue where he met with Abe in previous years.

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