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Japan's recently chosen leader, Sanae Takaichi, is set to confront her first major foreign policy test as she engages with former US President Trump for important negotiations in the Japanese capital.

Attention of their summit is likely to revolve around economic and security matters, representing a key moment for Japan's ties with its influential ally.

A Notable Premiership and International Introduction

The new PM, who recently became Japan's first female prime minister after winning the leadership of the ruling LDP, made her international debut at the recent ASEAN summit.

But, her forthcoming talks with the former president is considered the true test that will establish the direction for future bilateral cooperation.

Managing Domestic and Global Pressures

The prime minister faces a potentially shaky government situation, having formed a partnership that puts her a couple of votes away of a majority in the influential chamber of parliament.

This means, her administration will depend on opposition MPs to approve legislation, adding a element of difficulty to her governance.

Common Perspectives and Differing Policies

Takaichi holds Trump's suspicion of China's defense presence in the region, yet each nations have experienced challenges from his "America-first" economic policies.

Recently, the former president facilitated a truce agreement between Thailand and Cambodian authorities during the first stage of his Asia visit.

Defense Expansion and Spending Pledges

Takaichi has expressed her commitment to accelerate Japan's military expansion, planning to increase military spending to two percent of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This step aligns with a long-held request from Trump and represents the largest military expansion for the nation since the Second World War.

Security Cooperation and Strains

Japan has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" abilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the US, and intends to use domestically developed longer-range systems.

However, the two-way defense treaty is still a point of tension, with Trump previously stating that Japan should contribute more for stationing US troops on its territory.

Trade Outlook and Negotiations

Few expect significant concessions on economic issues during the visit, especially after latest tariff adjustments provided some ease to Japan's economy.

The PM is expected to seek further relief by committing to greater acquisitions of American goods, including vehicles, soybeans, and gas.

Individual Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The importance Trump attributes to personal rapport could work in the PM's favor, given her strong relationship with assassinated former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was among his favorite international figures.

Abe was the initial foreign leader to meet the then president-elect after his election, and the pair developed a close bond over shared activities such as the sport.

Upcoming Schedule and International Implications

Trump's visit to Japan will begin with a meeting with the Emperor at the royal residence in Tokyo.

It will be followed by talks with the PM at the official residence, the same location where Trump held talks with Abe in previous years.

Subsequently, the former president will travel to the Republic of Korea for the Apec summit, where he is set to meet Chinese president Xi Jinping.