🔗 Share this article

The nation's freshly appointed leader, Takaichi, is set to face her first major foreign policy test as she meets ex-President Trump for crucial talks in Tokyo.

Attention of their summit is anticipated to focus on economic and security issues, signaling a critical moment for Japan's ties with its powerful ally.

The Significant Premiership and Global Debut

The new PM, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female prime minister after securing the leadership of the governing LDP, made her global introduction at the latest Asean meeting.

But, her forthcoming talks with Trump is considered the true challenge that will set the tone for coming bilateral relations.

Managing Internal and Global Pressures

The prime minister confronts a possibly unstable political landscape, having established a partnership that puts her a couple of votes short of a majority in the powerful chamber of parliament.

This means, her government will depend on other MPs to pass laws, adding a layer of difficulty to her leadership.

Common Perspectives and Diverging Policies

Takaichi holds Trump's suspicion of Chinese military activities in the Asia-Pacific, yet both nations have faced issues from Trump's "America-first" economic approach.

Lately, the former president facilitated a truce deal between Thailand and Cambodia forces during the initial leg of his Asia visit.

Defense Build-up and Budget Pledges

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

This move aligns with a long-held request from the former US leader and signifies the largest defense buildup for the nation since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Strains

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

However, the bilateral defense treaty is still a source of strain, with Trump earlier suggesting that the nation should pay more for hosting American troops on its territory.

Trade Outlook and Talks

Few anticipate significant concessions on trade issues this week, particularly after recent duty adjustments offered some ease to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is likely to pursue further relief by promising greater purchases of US goods, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and natural gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Link

The importance Trump attributes to individual chemistry could benefit the PM's advantage, given her strong ties with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was among Trump's favorite world leaders.

He was the first foreign figure to meet Trump after his victory, and the pair built a close relationship over shared interests such as the sport.

Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Implications

The former president's visit to Japan will begin with a meeting with Emperor Naruhito at the royal residence in the capital.

This will be followed by talks with Takaichi at the state guest house, the very location where Trump met with Abe in 2019.

Afterward, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec summit, where he is scheduled to meet China's president Xi.