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Japan's freshly appointed leader, Sanae Takaichi, is set to confront her first major diplomatic examination as she engages with former US President Donald Trump for crucial talks in Tokyo.

Attention of their summit is likely to center on economic and security issues, signaling a key juncture for Japan's relationship with its powerful ally.

A Significant Premiership and International Introduction

Takaichi, who recently became Japan's initial woman prime minister after securing the top position of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had her global introduction at the latest Asean meeting.

However, her forthcoming talks with the former president is considered the real challenge that will establish the direction for future bilateral relations.

Managing Internal and Global Pressures

The prime minister deals with a possibly shaky government situation, having formed a coalition that puts her a couple of votes short of a controlling number in the powerful chamber of the Diet.

Consequently, her government will rely on opposition MPs to pass legislation, introducing a layer of complexity to her leadership.

Common Views and Differing Interests

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of Chinese defense presence in the region, yet both nations have faced challenges from Trump's "America-first" trade approach.

Lately, the former president facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodia forces on the initial leg of his Asian visit.

Military Expansion and Spending Commitments

The leader has stated her commitment to accelerate Japan's military build-up, planning to raise military expenditure to two percent of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This move matches a longstanding demand from Trump and represents the largest defense buildup for the nation since the Second World War.

Security Partnership and Strains

Japan has also taken steps to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including cruise missiles from the US, and intends to deploy locally made extended-range missiles.

But, the two-way defense agreement remains a source of strain, with the former president previously suggesting that the nation should pay more for hosting US troops on its soil.

Trade Outlook and Talks

Not many expect major agreements on trade issues this week, especially after latest tariff adjustments offered some ease to Japan's export sector.

The PM is expected to pursue further relief by committing to greater acquisitions of US products, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Abe Connection

The importance the former president places on personal rapport could work in the PM's advantage, given her close relationship with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of Trump's preferred world leaders.

He was the first international leader to meet the then president-elect after his election, and the pair developed a close bond over mutual activities such as golf.

Upcoming Schedule and Regional Significance

The former president's visit to the country will begin with a meeting with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

It will be followed by discussions with Takaichi at the official residence, the very location where he held talks with Abe in 2019.

Subsequently, the former president will travel to the Republic of Korea for the Apec summit, where he is set to engage with China's leader Xi.