🔗 Share this article

The nation's newly elected leader, Takaichi, is set to face her initial significant diplomatic challenge as she meets ex-President Trump for crucial negotiations in Tokyo.

The focus of their summit is expected to revolve around economic and defense matters, marking a critical moment for Tokyo's ties with its influential partner.

The Significant Premiership and International Introduction

The new PM, who just became Japan's first female leader after securing the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had her international introduction at the recent Asean meeting.

However, her forthcoming talks with the former president is considered the true test that will establish the direction for coming bilateral cooperation.

Navigating Internal and Global Challenges

Takaichi confronts a possibly shaky government situation, having established a coalition that leaves her a couple of votes away of a controlling number in the powerful lower house of parliament.

Consequently, her government will depend on other lawmakers to pass laws, introducing a layer of complexity to her leadership.

Shared Perspectives and Differing Policies

Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of China's military activities in the region, yet each nations have experienced challenges from Trump's "America-first" trade policies.

Recently, the former president facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodian authorities during the first stage of his Asian visit.

Military Expansion and Budget Pledges

The leader has expressed her commitment to accelerate Japan's military build-up, planning to raise military spending to two percent of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This step matches a long-held demand from Trump and signifies the largest military buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

The country has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and plans to deploy locally made longer-range missiles.

But, the bilateral security agreement remains a source of strain, with Trump previously suggesting that Japan should contribute more for stationing US troops on its territory.

Trade Outlook and Negotiations

Not many expect significant agreements on trade issues during the visit, especially after recent duty changes provided a degree of relief to Japan's export sector.

Takaichi is likely to seek additional relief by promising greater purchases of US products, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Abe Link

The importance Trump attributes to personal chemistry could benefit the PM's advantage, given her strong relationship with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was among his favorite international figures.

Abe was the first foreign figure to visit the then president-elect after his victory, and the pair developed a close relationship over shared activities such as golf.

Forthcoming Schedule and International Implications

Trump's trip to the country will start with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

It will be followed by discussions with Takaichi at the state guest house, the same location where he held talks with the former leader in 2019.

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