The New Prime Minister Aims to Benefit from Abe's Legacy in Key Talks with Trump.
Japan's newly elected leader, Takaichi, is preparing to face her primary diplomatic test as she sits down with former US President Donald Trump for crucial negotiations in the Japanese capital.
The focus of their encounter is likely to revolve around trade and security topics, representing a critical moment for Japan's ties with its powerful partner.
The Significant Premiership and Global Debut
Takaichi, who just assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after winning the top position of the ruling LDP, had her global debut at the recent ASEAN meeting.
However, her upcoming meeting with Trump is seen as the true test that will establish the direction for future bilateral cooperation.
Handling Domestic and Global Pressures
The prime minister deals with a possibly shaky government landscape, having established a coalition that puts her a couple of votes short of a majority in the influential chamber of parliament.
Consequently, her government will rely on other lawmakers to approve legislation, introducing a element of complexity to her leadership.
Common Views and Diverging Policies
Takaichi holds the former president's wariness of China's defense presence in the region, but each nations have experienced challenges from his "America-first" economic approach.
Lately, the former president facilitated a truce deal between Thailand and Cambodian forces on the first leg of his Asian tour.
Military Build-up and Budget Commitments
The leader has expressed her commitment to speed up Japan's military build-up, planning to raise military expenditure to two percent of GDP by the end of March.
This move aligns with a long-held demand from the former US leader and represents the largest military buildup for the nation since the Second World War.
Defense Cooperation and Strains
The country has also moved to obtain "retaliatory" capabilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the US, and plans to deploy domestically developed longer-range missiles.
However, the two-way security treaty is still a point of strain, with Trump previously stating that the nation should contribute more for hosting American troops on its territory.
Economic Outlook and Talks
Not many anticipate major agreements on trade issues this week, particularly after recent duty adjustments offered some relief to Japan's export sector.
The PM is expected to pursue additional relief by committing to increased purchases of US products, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and gas.
Individual Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Connection
The value Trump places on individual chemistry could benefit Takaichi's advantage, given her close relationship with the late ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of Trump's preferred international figures.
Abe was the first international figure to meet the then president-elect after his election, and the pair developed a close relationship over shared interests such as golf.
Upcoming Schedule and International Implications
Trump's trip to Japan will begin with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the royal residence in Tokyo.
It will be followed by discussions with Takaichi at the official residence, the very location where Trump held talks with Abe in 2019.
Afterward, the former president will proceed to South Korea for the APEC summit, where he is set to engage with Chinese president Xi.
