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Japan's freshly appointed prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to confront her first major foreign policy challenge as she meets former US President Trump for high-stakes discussions in Tokyo.

The focus of their encounter is anticipated to focus on economic and security topics, signaling a pivotal juncture for Japan's ties with its influential ally.

The Notable Premiership and International Debut

The new PM, who just assumed the role of Japan's first female prime minister after securing the top position of the governing LDP, made her global introduction at the latest ASEAN meeting.

But, her forthcoming meeting with Trump is considered the real challenge that will set the tone for future two-way relations.

Navigating Internal and International Challenges

The prime minister confronts a possibly shaky government situation, having formed a coalition that puts her a couple of votes away of a majority in the powerful chamber of the Diet.

This means, her administration will rely on opposition lawmakers to pass legislation, introducing a layer of difficulty to her governance.

Common Perspectives and Differing Interests

She shares Trump's suspicion of China's military activities in the region, but both countries have experienced challenges from Trump's "US-first" economic policies.

Recently, Trump oversaw a truce deal between Thailand and Cambodia forces during the first stage of his Asia visit.

Defense Expansion and Budget Commitments

Takaichi has expressed her commitment to speed up Japan's military build-up, planning to raise defense spending to two percent of GDP by the end of March.

This move aligns with a long-held demand from Trump and signifies the biggest defense expansion for the nation since the Second World War.

Defense Cooperation and Tensions

Japan has also moved to obtain "retaliatory" 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 strain, with Trump previously suggesting that Japan should pay more for stationing US forces on its soil.

Trade Expectations and Talks

Few anticipate major concessions on trade issues during the visit, especially after latest duty changes offered some ease to the country's economy.

The PM is likely to pursue additional relief by committing to greater acquisitions of American products, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Abe Link

The value the former president places on individual chemistry could benefit the PM's advantage, given her strong ties with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was among his preferred international figures.

He was the initial foreign figure to meet Trump after his election, and the two built a close relationship over shared interests such as the sport.

Upcoming Schedule and Regional Significance

Trump's trip to the country will start with a audience with the Emperor at the royal residence in the capital.

This will be succeeded by talks with Takaichi at the state guest house, the very location where Trump held talks with the former leader in 2019.

Subsequently, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is set to engage with China's leader Xi Jinping.