🔗 Share this article

The nation's recently chosen prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is ready to undertake her first major diplomatic examination as she sits down with former US President Trump for crucial discussions in the Japanese capital.

Attention of their summit is expected to center on economic and security issues, marking a pivotal moment for Japan's ties with its powerful ally.

The Historic Premiership and Global Introduction

The new PM, who recently became Japan's first female leader after winning the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, made her global introduction at the recent Asean meeting.

But, her forthcoming meeting with the former president is considered the real test that will set the tone for future two-way relations.

Navigating Domestic and Global Pressures

Takaichi deals with a possibly unstable government situation, having established a partnership that puts her a couple of votes away of a majority in the powerful chamber of the Diet.

Consequently, her administration will depend on other lawmakers to approve legislation, introducing a layer of complexity to her leadership.

Shared Perspectives and Diverging Interests

She holds Trump's wariness of Chinese defense activities in the Asia-Pacific, but both countries have faced challenges from Trump's "America-first" trade policies.

Recently, Trump facilitated a truce agreement between Thailand and Cambodian forces during the first leg of his Asia visit.

Military Build-up and Spending Commitments

Takaichi has stated her commitment to speed up Japan's military build-up, planning to raise military spending to 2% of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This move aligns with a long-held demand from the former US leader and signifies the biggest military buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

Japan has also moved to obtain "counterstrike" abilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the US, and intends to use locally made longer-range missiles.

However, the two-way security treaty is still a point of tension, with Trump previously suggesting that the nation should contribute more for hosting US troops on its territory.

Economic Expectations and Talks

Not many expect significant agreements on trade matters this week, particularly after recent tariff adjustments offered a degree of relief to Japan's economy.

The PM is expected to pursue further benefits by committing to greater acquisitions of American goods, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and natural gas.

Individual Rapport and the Abe Connection

The value the former president attributes to individual rapport could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her strong relationship with assassinated former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was among his favorite international figures.

He was the first foreign figure to visit the then president-elect after his victory, and the two built a strong relationship over shared interests such as golf.

Upcoming Schedule and International Implications

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

This will be succeeded by talks with Takaichi at the state guest house, the same location where he held talks with the former leader in previous years.

Subsequently, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the APEC summit, where he is set to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping.