🔗 Share this article The Recently Appointed Prime Minister Aims to Benefit from Abe's Influence in Crucial Talks with Trump. Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is set to undertake her primary diplomatic examination as she meets former US President Donald Trump for crucial discussions in Tokyo. Attention of their encounter is expected to center on economic and security matters, representing a critical juncture for Japan's ties with its influential partner. The Historic Premiership and Global Introduction Takaichi, who recently became Japan's first female prime minister after winning the top position of the governing LDP, made her international debut at the recent ASEAN meeting. But, her upcoming meeting with Trump is regarded as the real challenge that will set the tone for future two-way cooperation. Managing Domestic and International Pressures Takaichi faces a potentially shaky government situation, having formed a coalition that leaves her a couple of votes short of a controlling number in the powerful lower house of parliament. Consequently, her government will rely on other lawmakers to pass legislation, adding a layer of complexity to her governance. Shared Views and Diverging Policies She holds Trump's wariness of China's military presence in the Asia-Pacific, but each countries have faced challenges from Trump's "America-first" economic policies. Recently, the former president oversaw a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia authorities during the initial leg of his Asian tour. Defense Build-up and Budget Pledges Takaichi has stated her determination to speed up Japan's military build-up, aiming to raise military expenditure to 2% of GDP by the end of March. This step matches a long-held request from Trump and signifies the largest military expansion for the nation since the Second World War. Defense Cooperation and Strains The country has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" abilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the US, and intends to deploy domestically developed extended-range missiles. However, the two-way security agreement remains a source of strain, with Trump previously suggesting that the nation should contribute more for hosting US forces on its territory. Trade Outlook and Talks Few anticipate significant agreements on trade issues during the visit, especially after recent tariff adjustments offered a degree of ease to Japan's economy. The PM is expected to pursue additional benefits by committing to greater acquisitions of American products, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and natural gas. Individual Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Connection The value Trump attributes to personal rapport could work in Takaichi's favor, given her strong relationship with the late former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was among his preferred international figures. He was the first foreign figure to meet the then president-elect after his victory, and the pair developed a strong bond over mutual activities such as the sport. Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Significance Trump's trip to Japan will begin with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the royal residence in the capital. It will be followed by discussions with the PM at the official residence, the same venue where Trump met with the former leader in previous years. Afterward, the former president will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is scheduled to meet China's president Xi Jinping.