Japan's New PM Seeks to Utilize Abe's Legacy in Important Negotiations with Trump.

Japan's freshly appointed leader, Sanae Takaichi, is ready to face her first major foreign policy examination as she sits down with former US President Trump for crucial negotiations in the Japanese capital.

The agenda of their summit is anticipated to focus on trade and defense topics, marking a key moment for Japan's relationship with its influential ally.

A Historic Premiership and Global Debut

The new PM, who recently assumed the role of Japan's initial woman prime minister after winning the leadership of the governing LDP, made her international debut at the recent Asean summit.

But, her forthcoming talks with Trump is regarded as the true challenge that will set the tone for future two-way relations.

Managing Domestic and Global Pressures

Takaichi confronts a possibly shaky government situation, having established a partnership that leaves her a couple of votes away of a majority in the influential chamber of the Diet.

Consequently, her administration will rely on other MPs to approve laws, adding a layer of difficulty to her leadership.

Common Views and Differing Policies

She holds Trump's suspicion of Chinese defense presence in the region, but both countries have faced challenges from Trump's "US-first" economic policies.

Lately, Trump facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodian forces on the initial leg of his Asian tour.

Defense Build-up and Spending Commitments

Takaichi has stated her determination to speed up Japan's defense build-up, aiming to increase defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This move aligns with a long-held demand from Trump and represents the biggest military buildup for the nation since the WWII.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

Japan has also taken steps to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the US, and plans to deploy locally made longer-range missiles.

But, the two-way security agreement remains a source of tension, with Trump earlier stating that Japan should pay more for stationing US troops on its soil.

Economic Outlook and Talks

Few anticipate significant agreements on economic issues this week, especially after recent tariff adjustments provided some relief to Japan's economy.

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

Individual Chemistry and the Abe Connection

The value the former president places on personal rapport could work in Takaichi's favor, given her strong relationship with assassinated former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite international figures.

Abe was the initial foreign figure to meet the then president-elect after his victory, and the two built a close relationship over mutual activities such as golf.

Forthcoming Agenda and Regional Implications

Trump's visit to Japan will begin with a audience with the Emperor at the royal residence in the capital.

This will be succeeded by discussions with the PM at the official residence, the same location where he met with Abe in 2019.

Afterward, the former president will travel to the Republic of Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is set to engage with China's leader Xi Jinping.