The Recently Appointed PM Seeks to Leverage Abe's Connection in Crucial Talks with Trump.
The nation's recently chosen leader, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her primary diplomatic test as she meets former US President Trump for important negotiations in the Japanese capital.
The agenda of their summit is expected to revolve around economic and defense matters, marking a pivotal juncture for Japan's ties with its influential ally.
The Historic Premiership and International Introduction
The new PM, who recently became Japan's first female prime minister after winning the top position of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had her international introduction at the latest ASEAN summit.
But, her upcoming meeting with the former president is seen as the real challenge that will establish the direction for coming bilateral relations.
Handling Domestic and Global Challenges
The prime minister faces a potentially shaky government situation, having formed a partnership that puts her two seats short of a controlling number in the influential chamber of the Diet.
Consequently, her government will depend on other lawmakers to pass legislation, introducing a element of difficulty to her leadership.
Shared Perspectives and Diverging Policies
She holds Trump's suspicion of China's military activities in the region, yet each nations have faced challenges from his "America-first" trade approach.
Lately, Trump facilitated a truce agreement between Thai and Cambodian authorities on the initial stage of his Asian tour.
Military Build-up and Spending Commitments
The leader has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's defense expansion, aiming to raise military expenditure 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 biggest military expansion for the nation since the Second World War.
Security Cooperation and Tensions
The country has also moved to obtain "counterstrike" abilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and plans to use domestically developed longer-range missiles.
But, the bilateral security agreement remains a point of strain, with Trump previously suggesting that the nation should contribute more for hosting American troops on its territory.
Trade Outlook and Talks
Few expect significant concessions on trade matters this week, particularly after latest tariff changes provided some relief to Japan's export sector.
The PM is likely to pursue additional benefits by committing to increased acquisitions of US goods, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and natural gas.
Personal Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link
The value the former president places on personal chemistry could work in Takaichi's favor, given her strong ties with the late former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was among Trump's favorite international figures.
Abe was the first foreign figure to visit Trump after his victory, and the pair developed a close relationship over shared activities such as the sport.
Forthcoming Agenda and Regional Implications
Trump's visit to the country will start with a audience with the Emperor at the royal residence in the capital.
It will be followed by discussions with Takaichi at the state guest house, the very venue where Trump held talks with Abe in 2019.
Subsequently, the former president will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is set to engage with Chinese leader Xi.
