🔗 Share this article

The nation's newly elected prime minister, Takaichi, is preparing to confront her primary diplomatic test as she meets former US President Trump for important negotiations in Tokyo.

The agenda of their summit is likely to focus on economic and security matters, representing a key juncture for Japan's relationship with its influential partner.

A Significant Leadership and International Debut

Takaichi, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after winning the top position of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, made her international debut at the recent ASEAN summit.

However, her upcoming meeting with Trump is considered the real test that will set the tone for coming two-way relations.

Handling Domestic and International Challenges

Takaichi deals with a potentially shaky government situation, having established a partnership that leaves her a couple of votes away of a majority in the influential lower house of parliament.

Consequently, her government will depend on other lawmakers to approve legislation, adding a layer of complexity to her leadership.

Shared Views and Diverging Policies

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of China's defense activities in the Asia-Pacific, but both nations have experienced issues from his "America-first" trade policies.

Recently, the former president oversaw a truce agreement between Thailand and Cambodia authorities on the initial stage of his Asian visit.

Military Expansion and Spending Pledges

The leader has stated her determination to speed up Japan's military build-up, aiming to increase defense expenditure to two percent of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This step aligns with a longstanding demand from Trump and represents the largest military buildup for the nation since the Second World War.

Security Partnership and Strains

Japan has also moved to obtain "counterstrike" abilities, including cruise weapons from the United States, and intends to deploy locally made extended-range systems.

However, the two-way security treaty is still a point of strain, with the former president earlier suggesting that Japan should pay more for stationing US forces on its soil.

Economic Expectations and Talks

Few expect major agreements on economic issues this week, especially after latest tariff changes provided a degree of relief to Japan's economy.

The PM is expected to seek further benefits by committing to increased acquisitions of American products, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Rapport and the Abe Link

The value Trump places on personal chemistry could benefit Takaichi's advantage, given her strong relationship with the late ex-leader Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite international figures.

He was the first international leader to meet the then president-elect after his victory, and the two built a close bond over mutual activities such as golf.

Upcoming Agenda and Regional Implications

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

This will be followed by discussions with Takaichi at the state guest house, the same venue where he held talks with the former leader in previous years.

Subsequently, the former president will proceed to South Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is set to engage with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.