The Recently Appointed PM Seeks to Utilize Abe's Connection in Key Discussions with Trump.
Japan's recently chosen leader, Sanae Takaichi, is set to confront her primary diplomatic challenge as she meets former US President Trump for crucial negotiations in Tokyo.
Attention of their summit is likely to center on trade and security matters, marking a pivotal juncture for Japan's relationship with its powerful ally.
A Significant Leadership and International Introduction
Takaichi, who recently became Japan's initial woman leader after securing the leadership of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, made her global debut at the latest ASEAN meeting.
But, her upcoming talks with Trump is regarded as the real challenge that will establish the direction for coming two-way relations.
Handling Internal and International Pressures
Takaichi deals with a potentially unstable government situation, having formed a coalition that leaves her a couple of votes away of a majority in the influential chamber of the Diet.
Consequently, her government will depend on opposition MPs to pass legislation, adding a layer of difficulty to her leadership.
Common Views and Differing Interests
She shares the former president's suspicion of Chinese military activities in the Asia-Pacific, but both countries have faced challenges from his "US-first" trade policies.
Lately, Trump oversaw a truce deal between Thailand and Cambodian authorities during the first stage of his Asian tour.
Defense Build-up and Budget Pledges
The leader has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's military build-up, aiming to increase military expenditure to 2% of GDP by the end of March.
This step aligns with a longstanding request from Trump and signifies the largest defense buildup for Japan since the WWII.
Defense Partnership and Strains
Japan has also moved to acquire "counterstrike" abilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and intends to deploy locally made extended-range missiles.
But, the bilateral security treaty remains a source of strain, with the former president previously suggesting that the nation should contribute more for hosting American troops on its soil.
Trade Outlook and Talks
Few anticipate major agreements on economic issues during the visit, especially after latest duty changes provided a degree of ease to the country's export sector.
Takaichi is expected to pursue additional relief by committing to increased purchases of American products, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and natural gas.
Personal Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Link
The value Trump places on personal rapport could work in Takaichi's advantage, given her strong relationship with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was among his preferred world leaders.
Abe was the initial international figure to visit Trump after his election, and the two built a close relationship over mutual activities such as the sport.
Upcoming Agenda and Regional Implications
The former president's visit to Japan will start with a audience with the Emperor at the royal residence in Tokyo.
It will be succeeded by talks with the PM at the state guest house, the same location where he held talks with Abe in 2019.
Afterward, the former president will travel to the Republic of Korea for the Apec summit, where he is scheduled to engage with China's president Xi.
