🔗 Share this article

Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to face her first major diplomatic challenge as she engages with former US President Trump for crucial talks in Tokyo.

The focus of their summit is expected to revolve around trade and security issues, representing a pivotal moment for Tokyo's relationship with its influential ally.

The Significant Premiership and Global Introduction

The new PM, who just became Japan's first female prime minister after securing the leadership of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, made her international debut at the latest ASEAN meeting.

But, her upcoming talks with the former president is seen as the real challenge that will set the tone for future bilateral cooperation.

Handling Domestic and Global Pressures

Takaichi confronts a possibly unstable government landscape, having established a partnership that leaves her a couple of votes short of a majority in the powerful lower house of the Diet.

This means, her administration will rely on opposition lawmakers to pass legislation, adding a layer of complexity to her leadership.

Common Perspectives and Diverging Interests

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of Chinese defense presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet both nations have faced challenges from Trump's "US-first" economic policies.

Recently, Trump oversaw a ceasefire deal between Thai and Cambodia authorities during the first stage of his Asia visit.

Defense Expansion and Budget Commitments

The leader has stated her determination to speed up Japan's defense build-up, planning to increase defense expenditure to 2% of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This step matches a long-held request from the former US leader and represents the largest defense expansion for the nation since the WWII.

Security Cooperation and Strains

Japan has also moved to obtain "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise missiles from the US, and plans to deploy domestically developed extended-range missiles.

But, the two-way defense agreement is still a source of strain, with the former president earlier stating that Japan should contribute more for stationing US troops on its territory.

Trade Outlook and Talks

Not many anticipate major agreements on economic matters this week, particularly after latest duty changes provided some ease to Japan's economy.

The PM is expected to pursue additional benefits by committing to greater acquisitions of American products, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The value the former president places on individual rapport could work in the PM's advantage, given her close ties with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was among his favorite world leaders.

He was the initial foreign figure to visit the then president-elect after his election, and the two developed a strong relationship over shared interests such as the sport.

Upcoming Agenda and International Significance

Trump's trip to the country will start with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the royal residence in the capital.

This will be succeeded by talks with Takaichi at the state guest house, the same location where he held talks with the former leader in 2019.

Subsequently, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the Apec summit, where he is set to engage with China's leader Xi Jinping.