Japan's newly elected leader, Sanae Takaichi, is ready to undertake her first major foreign policy challenge as she sits down with ex-President Donald Trump for high-stakes discussions in Tokyo.
Attention of their encounter is expected to revolve around trade and defense topics, signaling a key juncture for Tokyo's ties with its powerful ally.
A Significant Premiership and Global Debut
Takaichi, who recently assumed the role of Japan's initial woman prime minister after winning the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, made her international debut at the latest Asean summit.
However, her forthcoming meeting with Trump is seen as the real challenge that will set the tone for future two-way cooperation.
Navigating Domestic and Global Pressures
The prime minister confronts a possibly unstable government landscape, having established a coalition that puts her two seats away of a majority in the powerful lower house of parliament.
Consequently, her administration will depend on other lawmakers to pass legislation, adding a element of complexity to her governance.
Shared Perspectives and Differing Interests
She shares the former president's suspicion of Chinese military activities in the Asia-Pacific, yet both nations have faced issues from Trump's "US-first" trade policies.
Recently, the former president facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia authorities on the initial stage of his Asian visit.
Military Expansion and Budget Pledges
Takaichi has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's military build-up, aiming to raise military expenditure to two percent of gross domestic product by the end of March.
This move matches a longstanding demand from the former US leader and signifies the largest defense expansion for Japan since the Second World War.
Defense Cooperation and Strains
The country has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the United States, and plans to deploy domestically developed extended-range missiles.
However, the two-way defense agreement is still a source of tension, with the former president earlier stating that the nation should contribute more for hosting US troops on its territory.
Trade Expectations and Talks
Few anticipate significant agreements on trade issues during the visit, particularly after latest duty adjustments offered some relief to Japan's economy.
The PM is expected to seek further benefits by committing to increased acquisitions of US products, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and natural gas.
Individual Chemistry and the Abe Link
The importance Trump places on personal rapport could benefit Takaichi's advantage, given her close ties with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was among Trump's favorite world leaders.
Abe was the first foreign figure to meet the then president-elect after his victory, and the two built a strong bond over shared activities such as the sport.
Upcoming Schedule and Regional Implications
Trump's visit to Japan will begin with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.
This will be succeeded by talks with the PM at the official residence, the same venue where Trump met 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 president Xi.
