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Japan's newly elected prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is set to undertake her first major foreign policy test as she sits down with former US President Donald Trump for crucial talks in Tokyo.

The agenda of their encounter is expected to focus on economic and security matters, marking a pivotal juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its influential ally.

The Significant Premiership and Global 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 introduction at the recent Asean summit.

But, her forthcoming meeting with Trump is regarded as the real test that will set the tone for coming two-way relations.

Navigating Internal and International Challenges

The prime minister deals with a possibly shaky government situation, having established a coalition that puts her two seats short of a controlling number in the influential chamber of the Diet.

This means, her government will rely on opposition lawmakers to pass laws, adding a layer of difficulty to her leadership.

Common Views and Differing Policies

Takaichi holds Trump's suspicion of China's defense presence in the region, but each countries have experienced challenges from Trump's "America-first" economic policies.

Recently, Trump facilitated a truce deal between Thailand and Cambodian authorities on the initial stage of his Asian visit.

Defense Expansion and Spending Commitments

The leader has expressed her commitment to speed up Japan's military build-up, planning to raise military spending to two percent of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This move matches a long-held demand from Trump and represents the largest military expansion for the nation since the WWII.

Security Cooperation and Strains

Japan has also moved to obtain "retaliatory" abilities, including cruise missiles from the US, and intends to use domestically developed longer-range systems.

But, the two-way defense treaty remains a source of tension, with Trump previously suggesting that Japan should contribute more for hosting American troops on its soil.

Economic Expectations and Talks

Few anticipate significant agreements on trade issues this week, especially after latest duty changes provided a degree of ease to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is likely to pursue further relief by committing to greater acquisitions of US goods, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and gas.

Individual Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link

The value Trump places on individual chemistry could benefit the PM's favor, given her close relationship with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was among his preferred international figures.

He was the first foreign figure to visit Trump after his election, and the pair built a strong relationship over mutual interests such as the sport.

Forthcoming Agenda and International Implications

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

It will be succeeded by talks with Takaichi at the state guest house, the very location where Trump held talks with the former leader in 2019.

Afterward, the former president will travel to South Korea for the APEC summit, where he is set to meet Chinese president Xi.