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The nation's freshly appointed leader, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to confront her first major diplomatic challenge as she sits down with former US President Donald Trump for important negotiations in Tokyo.

The agenda of their encounter is anticipated to focus on economic and defense issues, marking a pivotal juncture for Tokyo's ties with its powerful partner.

A Significant Leadership and Global Introduction

Takaichi, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after winning the top position of the governing LDP, made her global debut at the recent ASEAN summit.

However, her upcoming meeting with the former president is regarded as the true challenge that will establish the direction for future bilateral cooperation.

Managing Domestic and Global Pressures

Takaichi deals with a possibly unstable government situation, having formed a partnership that leaves her two seats short of a majority in the powerful chamber of parliament.

Consequently, her administration will depend on opposition MPs to approve legislation, adding a layer of difficulty to her governance.

Common Views and Differing Policies

Takaichi holds Trump's suspicion of Chinese military activities in the region, yet both nations have faced challenges from Trump's "America-first" trade policies.

Lately, Trump facilitated a truce agreement between Thailand and Cambodia authorities during the initial stage of his Asian visit.

Military Build-up and Budget Pledges

Takaichi has stated her determination to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, planning to raise military expenditure to 2% of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This step aligns with a longstanding demand from Trump and signifies the biggest defense buildup for Japan since the Second World War.

Security Partnership and Tensions

Japan has also moved to acquire "counterstrike" abilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and intends to deploy domestically developed longer-range systems.

But, the two-way security treaty remains a source of tension, with Trump earlier suggesting that the nation should contribute more for hosting US troops on its soil.

Trade Outlook and Talks

Not many expect major concessions on economic issues during the visit, particularly after latest tariff changes offered some ease to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is likely to pursue additional relief by committing to greater acquisitions of US products, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Abe Connection

The value the former president places on personal rapport could work in the PM's advantage, given her strong relationship with assassinated former prime minister Abe, who was among Trump's favorite international figures.

He was the first foreign leader to visit the then president-elect after his victory, and the two developed a strong relationship over mutual interests such as the sport.

Upcoming Agenda and International Implications

The former president's visit to the country will begin with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

This will be followed by discussions with the PM at the official residence, the very location where he held talks with the former leader in previous years.

Subsequently, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the APEC summit, where he is scheduled to meet Chinese leader Xi.