🔗 Share this article

The nation's freshly appointed prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is ready to confront her initial significant diplomatic test as she meets ex-President Trump for important discussions in Tokyo.

The focus of their summit is expected to focus on trade and security issues, signaling a key moment for Tokyo's ties with its powerful partner.

The Historic Premiership and International Debut

Takaichi, who just assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after winning the leadership of the ruling LDP, made her global debut at the recent Asean summit.

However, her upcoming talks with Trump is considered the real test that will set the tone for future two-way cooperation.

Navigating Internal and Global Pressures

The prime minister confronts a potentially shaky political situation, having established a partnership that leaves her two seats short of a majority in the powerful chamber of the Diet.

This means, her administration will rely on other lawmakers to approve laws, introducing a element of difficulty to her leadership.

Shared Views and Differing Policies

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

Recently, Trump oversaw a ceasefire deal between Thai and Cambodian authorities on the first stage of his Asia visit.

Defense Expansion and Spending Commitments

Takaichi has stated her determination to accelerate Japan's military build-up, planning to increase defense spending to 2% of GDP by the end of March.

This step matches a long-held request from Trump and signifies the largest defense buildup for the nation since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Strains

The country has also taken steps to obtain "retaliatory" abilities, including cruise missiles from the US, and intends to use domestically developed extended-range missiles.

But, the bilateral defense treaty remains a source of tension, with the former president previously stating that Japan should pay more for stationing American forces on its soil.

Economic Outlook and Talks

Not many anticipate significant agreements on trade matters during the visit, particularly after latest tariff adjustments provided a degree of relief to Japan's economy.

Takaichi is likely to seek additional relief by committing to increased acquisitions of American goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and natural gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Link

The importance Trump places on individual rapport could work in the PM's favor, given her strong ties with the late former prime minister Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite international figures.

He was the first foreign figure to meet Trump after his victory, and the two built a strong bond over mutual activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Agenda and International Implications

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

It will be followed by talks with Takaichi at the official residence, the same location where he met with Abe in previous years.

Subsequently, Trump will travel to South Korea for the Apec summit, where he is set to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping.