🔗 Share this article The New PM Hopes to Leverage Abe's Connection in Key Discussions with Trump. The nation's freshly appointed prime minister, Takaichi, is preparing to confront her primary foreign policy examination as she meets ex-President Donald Trump for important discussions in Tokyo. The focus of their encounter is likely to center on economic and defense issues, signaling a critical juncture for Tokyo's ties with its powerful ally. A Significant Leadership and Global Introduction The new PM, who just assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after winning the leadership of the ruling LDP, made her international introduction at the recent Asean summit. However, her upcoming meeting with Trump is regarded as the real challenge that will set the tone for coming bilateral cooperation. Handling Internal and International Challenges Takaichi confronts a possibly shaky political landscape, having established a coalition that puts her two seats away of a majority in the powerful lower house of parliament. This means, her government will rely on opposition lawmakers to approve legislation, adding a layer of complexity to her governance. Common Perspectives and Differing Interests She holds the former president's suspicion of China's defense presence in the Asia-Pacific, but each countries have faced challenges from Trump's "US-first" economic policies. Recently, Trump facilitated a truce deal between Thai and Cambodian authorities during the initial stage of his Asia visit. Military Expansion and Spending Pledges The leader has stated her commitment to speed up Japan's military build-up, aiming to increase military expenditure to 2% of GDP by the close of the fiscal year. This move matches a longstanding demand from Trump and signifies the biggest military buildup for the nation since the WWII. Security Partnership and Strains The country has also taken steps to obtain "counterstrike" abilities, including cruise missiles from the US, and plans to deploy locally made extended-range missiles. But, the bilateral security treaty is still a source of strain, with the former president earlier stating that the nation should contribute more for hosting US troops on its territory. Trade Expectations and Talks Few anticipate major concessions on trade issues this week, particularly after latest duty adjustments provided some relief to the country's export sector. The PM is expected to seek further relief by committing to increased acquisitions of US products, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and natural gas. Individual Chemistry and the Abe Connection The value Trump places on individual rapport could work in the PM's advantage, given her strong ties with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of his preferred international figures. Abe was the first foreign figure to meet the then president-elect after his victory, and the pair built a strong relationship over mutual activities such as golf. Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Implications The former president's visit to the country will start with a meeting with the Emperor at the royal residence in Tokyo. This will be succeeded by discussions with the PM at the official residence, the same location where he met with Abe in 2019. Subsequently, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec summit, where he is scheduled to meet Chinese leader Xi.