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Japan's newly elected prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her initial significant diplomatic examination as she engages with former US President Trump for crucial talks in the Japanese capital.

The agenda of their summit is likely to focus on economic and defense matters, marking a key moment for Japan's ties with its influential partner.

A Historic Leadership and Global Debut

The new PM, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after winning the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, made her international debut at the latest ASEAN summit.

However, her forthcoming talks with the former president is seen as the true test that will set the tone for coming two-way relations.

Handling Domestic and Global Pressures

Takaichi deals with a potentially shaky political situation, having formed a partnership that puts her two seats away of a controlling number in the powerful lower house of the Diet.

Consequently, her government will depend on other MPs to pass legislation, introducing a element of complexity to her governance.

Common Perspectives and Differing Interests

Takaichi shares the former president's suspicion of Chinese military presence in the region, yet both countries have faced challenges from his "US-first" trade policies.

Lately, the former president facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodian authorities during the initial leg of his Asian visit.

Military Build-up and Budget Commitments

Takaichi has stated her commitment to speed up Japan's defense build-up, aiming to increase military expenditure to two percent of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This step matches a long-held demand from the former US leader and signifies the biggest military expansion for Japan since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Strains

Japan has also moved to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise missiles from the US, and plans to deploy locally made extended-range systems.

However, the bilateral defense agreement is still a point of tension, with the former president earlier suggesting that the nation should pay more for hosting American troops on its territory.

Trade Expectations and Negotiations

Few expect major agreements on economic matters this week, especially after latest duty adjustments offered a degree of ease to the country's economy.

Takaichi is expected to seek further relief by committing to increased purchases of US goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Individual Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The importance the former president attributes to personal chemistry could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her close ties with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was among his favorite international figures.

Abe was the first international figure to visit Trump after his election, and the pair built a close bond over mutual activities such as golf.

Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Implications

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

It will be followed by talks with Takaichi at the official residence, the same location where Trump held talks with Abe in previous years.

Afterward, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec summit, where he is scheduled to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping.