🔗 Share this article

The nation's newly elected leader, Takaichi, is set to face her first major diplomatic examination as she sits down with ex-President Trump for crucial discussions in the Japanese capital.

Attention of their summit is likely to center on economic and defense issues, marking a critical moment for Tokyo's ties with its influential ally.

The Notable Leadership and International Debut

Takaichi, who recently assumed the role of Japan's initial woman leader after winning the top position of the governing LDP, had her global introduction at the latest ASEAN summit.

But, her upcoming talks with the former president is regarded as the real challenge that will establish the direction for coming two-way cooperation.

Navigating Domestic and International Pressures

Takaichi confronts a potentially shaky government situation, having formed a partnership that puts her two seats away of a majority in the powerful lower house of the Diet.

This means, her government will rely on opposition MPs to pass legislation, adding a element of difficulty to her governance.

Common Perspectives and Diverging Policies

She holds the former president's suspicion of China's military activities in the region, but each countries have experienced challenges from Trump's "US-first" economic policies.

Recently, the former president oversaw a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodian authorities during the initial stage of his Asia tour.

Military Build-up and Spending Pledges

The leader has stated her commitment to speed up Japan's defense expansion, aiming to raise military spending to two percent of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.

This step matches a longstanding demand from Trump and signifies the largest defense buildup for the nation since the WWII.

Defense Cooperation and Strains

The country has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" abilities, including cruise weapons from the United States, and intends to use domestically developed extended-range systems.

However, the two-way security treaty remains a source of strain, with Trump earlier stating that the nation should contribute more for stationing American troops on its territory.

Economic Expectations and Talks

Few expect significant concessions on trade issues this week, particularly after latest tariff adjustments offered some ease to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is expected to pursue further relief by committing to greater purchases of American products, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Individual Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Link

The importance Trump attributes to personal chemistry could benefit Takaichi's advantage, given her strong ties with assassinated former prime minister Abe, who was among his preferred world leaders.

He was the initial foreign leader to meet Trump after his victory, and the pair developed a strong bond over shared activities such as golf.

Forthcoming Agenda and Regional Significance

The former president's trip to Japan will begin with a audience with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

This will be followed by discussions with Takaichi at the state guest house, the same venue where he met with the former leader in 2019.

Subsequently, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the Apec summit, where he is scheduled to meet Chinese leader Xi.