🔗 Share this article

Japan's newly elected prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is set to confront her first major diplomatic test as she meets former US President Donald Trump for important talks in Tokyo.

Attention of their encounter is anticipated to revolve around trade and security topics, marking a key juncture for Tokyo's ties with its influential partner.

The Notable Premiership and International Introduction

The new PM, who just assumed the role of Japan's first female prime minister after securing the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had her global introduction at the recent Asean meeting.

However, her forthcoming talks with Trump is seen as the real challenge that will establish the direction for future bilateral cooperation.

Navigating Internal and International Pressures

Takaichi faces a possibly unstable political situation, having established a partnership that puts her a couple of votes away of a majority in the powerful chamber of the Diet.

Consequently, her administration will rely on opposition lawmakers to pass legislation, adding a element of difficulty to her leadership.

Shared Views and Diverging Interests

Takaichi holds the former president's suspicion of Chinese defense presence in the Asia-Pacific, but each countries have experienced challenges from his "America-first" trade approach.

Lately, the former president facilitated a ceasefire deal between Thailand and Cambodia forces during the initial stage of his Asia visit.

Military Build-up and Budget Commitments

The leader has stated her determination to speed up Japan's military build-up, aiming to raise defense spending to 2% of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This step aligns with a longstanding demand from Trump and represents the biggest military expansion for Japan since the WWII.

Defense Partnership and Strains

The country has also taken steps to obtain "retaliatory" abilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and plans to use domestically developed longer-range missiles.

However, the two-way security treaty remains a source of tension, with the former president previously stating that Japan should pay more for hosting American forces on its territory.

Trade Outlook and Negotiations

Few anticipate significant agreements on trade issues during the visit, especially after recent duty adjustments offered a degree of relief to the country's export sector.

Takaichi is likely to seek additional benefits by committing to greater acquisitions of US products, including vehicles, soybeans, and gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Link

The value the former president attributes to personal rapport could benefit the PM's favor, given her strong ties with the late ex-leader Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite international figures.

He was the initial foreign figure to visit Trump after his victory, and the pair developed a strong relationship over shared interests such as the sport.

Forthcoming Schedule and International Implications

Trump's trip to the country will start with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the royal residence in Tokyo.

This will be succeeded by discussions with the PM at the state guest house, the same venue where Trump held talks with the former leader in 2019.

Afterward, the former president will proceed to South Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is set to meet Chinese leader Xi.