🔗 Share this article

The nation's newly elected prime minister, Takaichi, is set to undertake her initial significant diplomatic examination as she engages with former US President Trump for important discussions in Tokyo.

Attention of their meeting is likely to center on economic and defense matters, marking a pivotal juncture for Japan's ties with its powerful partner.

The Notable Leadership and International Introduction

The new PM, who just assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after winning the top position of the ruling LDP, had her international introduction at the recent Asean summit.

But, her upcoming meeting with Trump is regarded as the true test that will establish the direction for future two-way relations.

Navigating Internal and International Pressures

Takaichi confronts a potentially unstable government situation, having formed a coalition that leaves her a couple of votes short of a controlling number in the influential lower house of the Diet.

Consequently, her administration will depend on other MPs to approve laws, adding a element of difficulty to her governance.

Common Views and Differing Policies

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of Chinese defense presence in the region, yet both nations have experienced issues from his "America-first" economic approach.

Recently, the former president oversaw a truce deal between Thailand and Cambodian forces on the initial leg of his Asia visit.

Military Build-up and Budget Commitments

The leader has stated her determination to speed up Japan's military build-up, aiming to increase military spending to 2% of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This move matches a long-held request from Trump and represents the largest defense expansion for the nation since the Second World War.

Security Cooperation and Tensions

The country has also moved to obtain "retaliatory" abilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the United States, and intends to use locally made extended-range systems.

But, the two-way defense agreement remains a point of strain, with the former president previously suggesting that Japan should contribute more for hosting American troops on its territory.

Economic Outlook and Negotiations

Not many expect major concessions on economic issues during the visit, particularly after recent duty adjustments offered a degree of ease to the country's economy.

Takaichi is likely to seek further benefits by promising increased acquisitions of US products, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and natural gas.

Individual Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link

The importance the former president attributes to individual rapport could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her close ties with assassinated former prime minister Abe, who was among Trump's preferred international figures.

Abe was the first foreign leader to meet Trump after his victory, and the pair built a strong bond over shared activities such as golf.

Upcoming Agenda and Regional Significance

The former president's visit to the country will begin with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

This will be succeeded by talks with Takaichi at the state guest house, the very location where he met with the former leader in 2019.

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