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Japan's newly elected prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to confront her initial significant diplomatic test as she meets ex-President Trump for crucial negotiations in Tokyo.

Attention of their encounter is expected to center on economic and security matters, marking a key juncture for Tokyo's ties with its powerful ally.

A Historic Leadership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who just became Japan's initial woman leader after winning the top position of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, had her international introduction at the latest Asean summit.

But, her forthcoming meeting with Trump is considered the real test that will establish the direction for future bilateral relations.

Handling Domestic and International Pressures

Takaichi faces a potentially unstable government situation, having formed a partnership that puts her a couple of votes short of a majority in the powerful chamber of the Diet.

This means, her administration will rely on other lawmakers to pass laws, adding a layer of complexity to her leadership.

Common Views and Diverging Interests

Takaichi shares Trump's wariness of Chinese defense presence in the region, yet both nations have experienced challenges from Trump's "US-first" trade approach.

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

Military Build-up and Spending Pledges

Takaichi has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's military expansion, planning to raise military expenditure to two percent of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This step aligns with a long-held request from the former US leader and represents the largest military expansion for Japan since the WWII.

Security Partnership and Strains

The country has also taken steps to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the United States, and intends to use locally made extended-range systems.

However, the bilateral defense agreement remains a point of tension, with the former president previously suggesting that the nation should pay more for hosting American forces on its territory.

Trade Outlook and Talks

Not many expect major agreements on economic issues this week, particularly after recent duty adjustments provided some ease to the country's export sector.

Takaichi is expected to seek further benefits by committing to greater purchases of American products, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and gas.

Individual Rapport and the Abe Link

The importance the former president attributes to personal chemistry could work in Takaichi's favor, given her strong relationship with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was among Trump's favorite world leaders.

He was the first international leader to meet Trump after his election, and the pair built a strong relationship over mutual interests such as golf.

Upcoming Agenda and International Significance

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

It will be followed by discussions with the PM at the official residence, the same venue where he held talks with Abe in previous years.

Subsequently, the former president will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec summit, where he is set to meet Chinese president Xi Jinping.