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Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is ready to face her first major foreign policy examination as she engages with ex-President Donald Trump for crucial discussions in the Japanese capital.

Attention of their encounter is anticipated to focus on economic and security topics, signaling a critical moment for Japan's relationship with its powerful ally.

A Notable Premiership and Global Introduction

The new PM, who just assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after winning the leadership of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, made her global introduction at the recent Asean summit.

But, her forthcoming talks with the former president is regarded as the real test that will establish the direction for coming bilateral cooperation.

Handling Domestic and Global Challenges

The prime minister confronts a possibly shaky political situation, having formed a coalition that puts her a couple of votes away of a controlling number in the influential lower house of the Diet.

This means, her government will rely on opposition lawmakers to approve legislation, adding a element of difficulty to her leadership.

Common Views and Differing Policies

Takaichi holds Trump's suspicion of Chinese defense presence in the region, but each nations have faced challenges from his "US-first" economic policies.

Recently, Trump oversaw a ceasefire deal between Thai and Cambodian authorities during the initial leg of his Asian visit.

Military Build-up and Spending Pledges

The leader has stated her commitment to speed up Japan's defense build-up, planning to raise military spending to 2% of GDP by the end of March.

This step aligns with a longstanding demand from the former US leader and represents the biggest military expansion for the nation since the Second World War.

Defense Partnership and Strains

Japan has also taken steps to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the United States, and plans to deploy domestically developed longer-range systems.

But, the bilateral security treaty remains a source of tension, with Trump earlier stating that the nation should pay more for hosting US forces on its soil.

Economic Expectations and Negotiations

Few expect significant concessions on trade matters this week, especially after recent duty adjustments offered a degree of ease to the country's economy.

The PM is expected to pursue additional benefits by committing to greater purchases of American goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Link

The value Trump attributes to individual rapport could benefit the PM's favor, given her close relationship with the late former prime minister Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite world leaders.

He was the first foreign figure to meet Trump after his victory, and the two developed a strong relationship over mutual activities such as golf.

Upcoming Schedule and International Significance

The former president's visit to Japan will start with a audience with the Emperor at the royal residence in the capital.

It will be followed by talks with Takaichi at the state guest house, the very location where he met with Abe in previous years.

Subsequently, the former president will travel to the Republic of Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is scheduled to meet Chinese leader Xi.