Japan's New PM Seeks to Utilize Shinzo Abe's Legacy in Important Negotiations with Donald Trump.

Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is set to face her primary foreign policy test as she sits down with ex-President Donald Trump for important negotiations in the Japanese capital.

The focus of their encounter is expected to revolve around economic and security matters, marking a critical moment for Japan's ties with its influential ally.

The Historic Premiership and Global Introduction

Takaichi, who recently became Japan's initial woman prime minister after securing the leadership of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, had her global introduction at the latest Asean meeting.

But, her forthcoming talks with Trump is regarded as the real challenge that will set the tone for future bilateral cooperation.

Navigating Internal and International Pressures

The prime minister confronts a possibly unstable political landscape, having established a partnership that leaves her two seats short of a majority in the powerful chamber of parliament.

This means, her government will rely on other MPs to pass legislation, adding a layer of complexity to her governance.

Common Views and Diverging Interests

Takaichi holds Trump's suspicion of Chinese defense presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet both nations have faced issues from Trump's "US-first" trade approach.

Lately, the former president facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodian forces on the first stage of his Asian visit.

Defense Expansion and Spending Pledges

The leader has stated her commitment to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, planning to raise military expenditure to 2% of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This step matches a long-held demand from Trump and represents the biggest defense expansion for Japan since the WWII.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

The country has also taken steps to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including cruise missiles from the United States, and intends to deploy domestically developed longer-range missiles.

But, the two-way security agreement remains a point of tension, with the former president previously stating that Japan should pay more for stationing American troops on its territory.

Trade Outlook and Talks

Few anticipate significant agreements on economic issues this week, especially after latest tariff adjustments offered a degree of ease to Japan's economy.

The PM is likely to pursue further benefits by promising increased purchases of American products, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The importance Trump attributes to personal rapport could benefit the PM's advantage, given her strong ties with assassinated former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was among his preferred world leaders.

He was the initial international leader to meet Trump after his victory, and the two built a close bond over shared interests such as golf.

Forthcoming Agenda and International Implications

Trump's trip to the country will start with a meeting with Emperor Naruhito at the royal residence in Tokyo.

This will be followed by talks with Takaichi at the official residence, the same venue where Trump held talks with Abe in 2019.

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