The Recently Appointed PM Seeks to Utilize Abe's Legacy in Key Discussions with Donald Trump.
Japan's freshly appointed leader, Sanae Takaichi, is set to face her first major diplomatic examination as she sits down with ex-President Donald Trump for important talks in Tokyo.
The agenda of their meeting is likely to focus on economic and security issues, marking a pivotal juncture for Japan's ties with its powerful ally.
The Significant Premiership and Global Debut
The new PM, who just became Japan's first female leader after winning the leadership of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, made her international introduction at the latest Asean summit.
However, her forthcoming meeting with the former president is considered the real test that will establish the direction for future bilateral cooperation.
Handling Domestic and International Challenges
Takaichi faces a possibly unstable political landscape, having established a partnership that leaves her a couple of votes short of a controlling number in the powerful lower house of the Diet.
This means, her administration will depend on opposition MPs to pass legislation, adding a layer of complexity to her leadership.
Common Perspectives and Differing Policies
She holds the former president's suspicion of China's defense activities in the region, but both nations have experienced issues from his "America-first" trade policies.
Recently, Trump facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodian authorities during the first leg of his Asian visit.
Defense Expansion and Spending Commitments
The leader has stated her determination to speed up Japan's military build-up, aiming to raise military spending to 2% of gross domestic product by the end of March.
This step matches a longstanding demand from the former US leader and represents the biggest military buildup for Japan since the WWII.
Security Cooperation and Tensions
Japan has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the US, and plans to use locally made extended-range systems.
However, the bilateral defense agreement remains a point of tension, with Trump previously stating that Japan should contribute more for hosting US troops on its soil.
Trade Outlook and Negotiations
Not many anticipate significant concessions on economic matters during the visit, particularly after latest tariff adjustments provided a degree of relief to the country's economy.
Takaichi is likely to pursue further benefits by promising increased purchases of American products, including vehicles, soybeans, and natural gas.
Personal Chemistry and the Abe Link
The value the former president places on personal rapport could work in Takaichi's favor, given her strong ties with the late ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of his favorite world leaders.
He was the first international figure to visit the then president-elect after his election, and the two built a strong bond over mutual activities such as the sport.
Forthcoming Schedule and International Implications
The former president's visit to Japan will begin with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in the capital.
It will be succeeded by discussions with the PM at the official residence, the very venue where he met with Abe in previous years.
Afterward, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the Apec summit, where he is set to meet China's leader Xi Jinping.
