The New PM Aims to Leverage Abe's Connection in Important Discussions with Donald Trump.

Japan's newly elected prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is set to undertake her first major foreign policy test as she sits down with ex-President Trump for high-stakes discussions in Tokyo.

The focus of their meeting is anticipated to revolve around trade and security matters, representing a key juncture for Tokyo's ties with its influential partner.

A Significant Premiership and Global Debut

The new PM, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after securing the leadership of the governing LDP, had her international debut at the latest ASEAN summit.

However, her upcoming talks with the former president is considered the true test that will establish the direction for coming two-way cooperation.

Handling Internal and Global Pressures

Takaichi deals with a potentially unstable political landscape, having formed a partnership that leaves her two seats away of a controlling number in the powerful chamber of parliament.

Consequently, her administration will depend on opposition lawmakers to pass legislation, adding a element of difficulty to her governance.

Common Views and Differing Policies

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of Chinese defense activities in the Asia-Pacific, but both countries have experienced issues from Trump's "America-first" economic policies.

Lately, Trump oversaw a truce agreement between Thai and Cambodia authorities during the first leg of his Asian tour.

Defense Build-up and Budget Pledges

The leader has stated her determination to speed up Japan's defense expansion, planning to raise military spending to two percent of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This move aligns with a longstanding request from the former US leader and signifies the biggest defense expansion for Japan since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Strains

The country has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the US, and plans to use domestically developed extended-range missiles.

However, the two-way defense treaty is still a source of tension, with Trump earlier suggesting that Japan should pay more for hosting American troops on its territory.

Economic Outlook and Negotiations

Not many anticipate significant agreements on trade matters during the visit, especially after recent duty adjustments provided a degree of relief to Japan's export sector.

Takaichi is likely to pursue further benefits by promising greater purchases of US products, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Rapport and the Abe Connection

The value the former president places on individual rapport could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her strong relationship with the late ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was among Trump's preferred international figures.

Abe was the first foreign leader to meet the then president-elect after his election, and the pair built a close bond over shared activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Agenda and Regional Significance

The former president's visit to Japan will start with a meeting with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

It will be followed by talks with Takaichi at the official residence, the same location where he met with Abe in 2019.

Afterward, the former president will travel to South Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is set to engage with Chinese president Xi.