🔗 Share this article

The nation's freshly appointed prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is ready to face her initial significant diplomatic examination as she sits down with former US President Trump for high-stakes negotiations in the Japanese capital.

The focus of their summit is expected to center on economic and defense topics, marking a pivotal moment for Japan's ties with its influential ally.

The Significant Leadership and Global Debut

Takaichi, who recently became Japan's first female prime minister after securing the leadership of the ruling LDP, had her international introduction at the latest ASEAN summit.

But, her upcoming meeting with the former president is considered the true test that will set the tone for coming bilateral relations.

Managing Internal and Global Challenges

The prime minister confronts a potentially unstable government landscape, having established a partnership that leaves her a couple of votes away of a majority in the powerful chamber of the Diet.

This means, her administration will depend on opposition lawmakers to approve legislation, adding a element of complexity to her governance.

Shared Views and Diverging Policies

Takaichi shares the former president's suspicion of Chinese defense presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet each nations have faced challenges from Trump's "America-first" economic approach.

Lately, Trump oversaw a ceasefire deal between Thai and Cambodian forces on the initial stage of his Asian tour.

Military Build-up and Spending Commitments

Takaichi has stated her commitment to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, planning to raise military expenditure to 2% of GDP by the end of March.

This step matches a longstanding request from the former US leader and represents the largest defense expansion for Japan since the WWII.

Defense Cooperation and Strains

Japan has also moved to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and intends to deploy locally made extended-range missiles.

But, the two-way security agreement is still a point of strain, with Trump earlier stating that the nation should contribute more for hosting US troops on its territory.

Economic Outlook and Negotiations

Not many anticipate significant agreements on trade matters this week, particularly after recent duty changes offered some relief to Japan's export sector.

Takaichi is expected to pursue further benefits by committing to increased purchases of US goods, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and natural gas.

Personal Rapport and the Abe Connection

The value Trump places on individual rapport could work in the PM's favor, given her strong relationship with the late ex-leader Abe, who was one of his favorite international figures.

He was the first international figure to meet the then president-elect after his victory, and the pair developed a close bond over mutual interests such as the sport.

Upcoming Agenda and Regional Significance

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

It will be followed by talks with the PM at the official residence, the very venue where Trump held talks with Abe in 2019.

Afterward, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the APEC summit, where he is scheduled to engage with China's president Xi Jinping.