🔗 Share this article

Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Takaichi, is set to confront her primary diplomatic test as she sits down with ex-President Trump for important discussions in Tokyo.

The focus of their meeting is expected to center on economic and security issues, representing a key moment for Tokyo's ties with its influential partner.

The Historic Premiership and Global Introduction

The new PM, who just assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after securing the top position of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, made her global introduction at the latest Asean meeting.

However, her upcoming meeting with Trump is considered the true challenge that will establish the direction for future two-way cooperation.

Managing Internal and International Challenges

The prime minister confronts a possibly unstable government landscape, having formed a partnership that leaves her a couple of votes short of a controlling number in the influential chamber of parliament.

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

Shared Views and Differing Policies

Takaichi holds the former president's wariness of China's military presence in the region, yet both countries have faced challenges from Trump's "US-first" economic approach.

Lately, Trump facilitated a truce agreement between Thai and Cambodia authorities on the first leg of his Asian visit.

Military Build-up and Budget Pledges

The leader has stated her determination to speed up Japan's military expansion, aiming to raise defense expenditure to 2% of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This move aligns with a longstanding demand from the former US leader and represents the largest military buildup for Japan since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

Japan has also taken steps to obtain "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise missiles from the US, and intends to deploy locally made longer-range systems.

But, the two-way security agreement is still a source of tension, with Trump earlier stating that Japan should pay more for stationing American troops on its soil.

Trade Expectations and Talks

Not many expect significant concessions on economic matters during the visit, particularly after latest tariff changes provided some relief to Japan's export sector.

Takaichi is expected to seek further relief by committing to increased purchases of US goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Rapport and the Abe Link

The importance Trump places on personal rapport could work in Takaichi's favor, given her close ties with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was among Trump's preferred international figures.

He was the first foreign leader to meet the then president-elect after his victory, and the two developed a strong relationship over shared interests such as golf.

Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Significance

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

This will be succeeded by discussions with the PM at the state guest house, the same location where he met with Abe in previous years.

Afterward, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is scheduled to meet Chinese leader Xi.