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Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Takaichi, is preparing to face her primary foreign policy challenge as she engages with ex-President Donald Trump for crucial negotiations in the Japanese capital.

The agenda of their summit is expected to revolve around economic and security issues, representing a pivotal juncture for Japan's ties with its influential ally.

A Notable Premiership and International Debut

Takaichi, who recently became Japan's first female leader after securing the leadership of the ruling LDP, had her global introduction at the latest Asean meeting.

However, her forthcoming meeting with Trump is seen as the true challenge that will establish the direction for coming two-way relations.

Navigating Internal and International Pressures

Takaichi confronts a possibly shaky political situation, having formed a coalition that leaves her a couple of votes away of a majority in the influential chamber of the Diet.

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

Common Perspectives and Differing Interests

Takaichi holds the former president's wariness of China's military activities in the region, but each countries have faced challenges from Trump's "America-first" trade approach.

Lately, the former president oversaw a truce deal between Thailand and Cambodia forces during the first stage of his Asian visit.

Defense Build-up and Spending Pledges

Takaichi has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, planning to increase military spending to two percent of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This step aligns with a long-held demand from the former US leader and represents the largest military buildup for the nation since the WWII.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

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

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

Economic Outlook and Talks

Not many anticipate major agreements on economic matters this week, especially after recent tariff changes provided a degree of relief to the country's economy.

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

Personal Chemistry and the Abe Connection

The importance the former president places on individual chemistry could work in the PM's advantage, given her strong ties with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of his favorite world leaders.

He was the initial international figure to visit Trump after his victory, and the two built a close relationship over shared activities such as golf.

Upcoming Schedule and International Significance

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

This will be succeeded by discussions with Takaichi at the state guest house, the same venue where Trump held talks with the former leader in previous years.

Afterward, Trump will travel to South Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is set to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping.