🔗 Share this article

The nation's freshly appointed leader, Takaichi, is set to face her initial significant foreign policy examination as she meets ex-President Trump for crucial discussions in Tokyo.

Attention of their summit is expected to center on trade and security matters, signaling a key juncture for Tokyo's ties with its powerful partner.

A Historic Leadership and International Debut

Takaichi, who just became Japan's first female prime minister after winning the top position of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had her global debut at the recent ASEAN meeting.

However, her forthcoming talks with the former president is considered the real challenge that will set the tone for future two-way relations.

Navigating Internal and International Pressures

Takaichi faces a possibly shaky government landscape, having established a coalition that leaves her a couple of votes short of a majority in the influential lower house of parliament.

Consequently, her government will depend on opposition MPs to pass legislation, adding a element of complexity to her leadership.

Shared Views and Differing Policies

Takaichi holds the former president's wariness of Chinese military presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet each nations have faced challenges from Trump's "US-first" trade approach.

Recently, the former president facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodian authorities during the initial stage of his Asian visit.

Military Build-up and Spending Commitments

Takaichi has expressed her commitment to accelerate Japan's military expansion, aiming to raise military expenditure to two percent of GDP by the end of March.

This move matches a long-held demand from Trump and signifies the biggest defense buildup for the nation since the WWII.

Security Partnership and Strains

Japan has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the United States, and plans to use domestically developed longer-range missiles.

But, the two-way defense agreement is still a source of tension, with Trump previously suggesting that the nation should pay more for stationing American troops on its soil.

Economic Outlook and Negotiations

Not many anticipate major concessions on trade issues this week, particularly after recent tariff adjustments offered a degree of ease to Japan's export sector.

Takaichi is likely to pursue additional benefits by committing to greater acquisitions of American goods, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Individual Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link

The value the former president places on individual rapport could benefit the PM's advantage, given her close relationship with the late ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite international figures.

He was the first international leader to visit Trump after his victory, and the two built a strong bond over shared activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Agenda and Regional Significance

Trump's visit to Japan will begin with a meeting with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

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

Subsequently, the former president will travel to the Republic of Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is set to engage with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.