The Recently Appointed PM Seeks to Benefit from Shinzo Abe's Influence in Important Talks with Donald Trump.
The nation's newly elected leader, Takaichi, is preparing to face her initial significant diplomatic challenge as she meets ex-President Trump for crucial talks in Tokyo.
The focus of their meeting is anticipated to center on trade and defense topics, signaling a critical moment for Tokyo's relationship with its powerful ally.
The 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, had her global introduction at the latest Asean summit.
But, her forthcoming meeting with the former president is considered the true challenge that will establish the direction for coming two-way relations.
Navigating Internal and International Challenges
The prime minister confronts a possibly shaky government situation, having formed a partnership that leaves her a couple of votes short of a majority in the powerful lower house of parliament.
Consequently, her government will rely on other lawmakers to approve laws, adding a layer of complexity to her governance.
Common Views and Diverging Interests
Takaichi holds Trump's wariness of China's defense activities in the region, yet each countries have experienced issues from Trump's "US-first" trade policies.
Lately, Trump facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodian authorities on the first stage of his Asia visit.
Military Build-up and Budget Pledges
Takaichi has stated her commitment to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, planning to raise defense spending to 2% of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.
This step matches a long-held demand from Trump and represents the biggest defense expansion for the nation since the Second World War.
Defense Cooperation and Strains
Japan has also moved to obtain "retaliatory" capabilities, including cruise missiles from the US, and intends to use locally made longer-range missiles.
But, the two-way defense agreement remains a source of tension, with the former president previously stating that Japan should pay more for hosting American troops on its soil.
Trade Outlook and Talks
Not many anticipate major concessions on trade matters this week, especially after latest duty changes offered a degree of relief to the country's export sector.
The PM is likely to pursue further relief by promising increased acquisitions of US products, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.
Personal Rapport and the Abe Connection
The value the former president attributes to personal rapport could work in the PM's advantage, given her strong ties with the late ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was among his preferred international figures.
He was the initial international figure to meet Trump after his election, and the pair developed a close bond over shared interests such as the sport.
Upcoming Schedule and Regional Implications
Trump's visit to the country will start with a meeting with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.
This will be succeeded by discussions with Takaichi at the official residence, the very venue where he met with Abe in previous years.
Subsequently, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec summit, where he is set to meet Chinese president Xi.
