The Recently Appointed Prime Minister Seeks to Utilize Shinzo Abe's Legacy in Important Discussions with Donald Trump.

Japan's freshly appointed prime minister, Takaichi, is set to undertake her initial significant diplomatic test as she sits down with former US President Donald Trump for important talks in Tokyo.

The focus of their encounter is likely to focus on trade and defense topics, signaling a key juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its powerful partner.

A Notable Premiership and International Introduction

The new PM, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after winning the top position of the ruling LDP, made her international debut at the recent ASEAN meeting.

But, her forthcoming meeting with Trump is considered the true challenge that will set the tone for coming bilateral relations.

Navigating Internal and Global Pressures

The prime minister deals with a potentially unstable political situation, having formed a partnership that leaves her two seats short of a majority in the powerful chamber of parliament.

This means, her administration will depend on other lawmakers to pass legislation, adding a layer of difficulty to her leadership.

Common Views and Differing Interests

She holds the former president's wariness of Chinese military presence in the Asia-Pacific, but each nations have experienced issues from Trump's "America-first" economic policies.

Recently, Trump facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodia authorities on the initial stage of his Asian tour.

Defense Build-up and Spending Pledges

Takaichi has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's military build-up, planning to increase defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This step matches a long-held demand from Trump and signifies the largest defense expansion for Japan since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Strains

The country has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" abilities, including cruise missiles from the US, and plans to use locally made longer-range missiles.

However, the bilateral security agreement is still a source of tension, with the former president earlier stating that Japan should pay more for stationing American forces on its soil.

Trade Outlook and Talks

Few expect major agreements on economic matters during the visit, especially after recent duty adjustments offered some ease to the country's export sector.

The PM is expected to seek further relief by committing to increased acquisitions of US goods, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and gas.

Individual Rapport and the Abe Link

The importance Trump places on personal chemistry could work in the PM's favor, given her strong ties with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was one of Trump's preferred world leaders.

He was the first international figure to visit Trump after his election, and the two developed a strong bond over mutual interests such as the sport.

Forthcoming Schedule and International Implications

The former president's visit to Japan will start with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the royal residence in Tokyo.

It will be succeeded by talks with Takaichi at the official residence, the very location where Trump held talks with the former leader in previous years.

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