The Recently Appointed PM Seeks to Benefit from Shinzo Abe's Connection in Important Discussions with Trump.
Japan's recently chosen leader, Takaichi, is ready to face her initial significant foreign policy test as she engages with former US President Donald Trump for important talks in Tokyo.
The agenda of their encounter is anticipated to focus on economic and security topics, representing a pivotal moment for Tokyo's relationship with its influential ally.
A Significant Leadership and International Introduction
Takaichi, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female prime minister after securing the leadership of the ruling LDP, made her international debut at the latest Asean summit.
But, her forthcoming talks with the former president is regarded as the real test that will set the tone for future bilateral cooperation.
Managing Internal and International Challenges
The prime minister confronts a potentially unstable political landscape, having formed a coalition that leaves her two seats short of a controlling number in the powerful lower house of parliament.
Consequently, her government will rely on other lawmakers to approve laws, introducing a element of complexity to her governance.
Shared Views and Diverging Interests
Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of Chinese defense activities in the region, but both countries have faced challenges from Trump's "US-first" trade approach.
Lately, the former president oversaw a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia forces on the initial stage of his Asia visit.
Defense Build-up and Budget Pledges
The leader has stated her determination to speed up Japan's military build-up, aiming to increase military expenditure to two percent of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.
This move aligns with a long-held demand from the former US leader and signifies the largest military expansion for the nation since the WWII.
Defense Partnership and Strains
The country has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" abilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and intends to use locally made extended-range systems.
However, the two-way defense agreement is still a source of strain, with the former president previously stating that Japan should pay more for hosting US troops on its soil.
Trade Outlook and Negotiations
Not many expect significant concessions on trade matters this week, particularly after recent duty adjustments offered a degree of ease to the country's economy.
Takaichi is likely to pursue additional relief by promising greater purchases of US goods, including vehicles, soybeans, and gas.
Individual Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link
The value the former president places on individual chemistry could work in Takaichi's favor, given her strong ties with the late ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was among his favorite international figures.
Abe was the initial international leader to meet Trump after his victory, and the two built a strong bond over mutual activities such as the sport.
Upcoming Agenda and International Implications
The former president's trip to Japan will start with a audience with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.
This will be followed by talks with Takaichi at the state guest house, the same location where he held talks with the former leader in 2019.
Subsequently, Trump will travel to South Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is set to meet Chinese president Xi.
