The Recently Appointed Prime Minister Aims to Leverage Abe's Influence in Important Discussions with Trump.
The nation's recently chosen leader, Takaichi, is preparing to confront her first major diplomatic examination as she sits down with ex-President Donald Trump for important discussions in the Japanese capital.
Attention of their meeting is likely to revolve around trade and security topics, representing a critical juncture for Japan's relationship with its powerful ally.
The Significant Leadership and Global Introduction
Takaichi, who just assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after winning the leadership of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, had her global introduction at the recent Asean summit.
But, her forthcoming meeting with Trump is regarded as the true test that will set the tone for coming bilateral relations.
Managing Domestic and International Challenges
The prime minister deals with a potentially unstable government landscape, having established a coalition that leaves her a couple of votes short of a controlling number in the powerful chamber of the Diet.
Consequently, her government will rely on opposition MPs to pass laws, adding a layer of difficulty to her governance.
Common Perspectives and Differing Interests
Takaichi shares the former president's suspicion of China's military presence in the Asia-Pacific, but both nations have experienced challenges from Trump's "US-first" economic approach.
Lately, Trump oversaw a ceasefire deal between Thailand and Cambodia forces during the first leg of his Asia visit.
Military Expansion and Spending Commitments
Takaichi has stated her determination to accelerate Japan's military expansion, aiming to increase defense spending to two percent of GDP by the end of March.
This step matches a long-held demand from the former US leader and signifies the biggest defense buildup for Japan since the Second World War.
Security Partnership and Strains
The country has also moved to acquire "counterstrike" abilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the US, and plans to deploy domestically developed extended-range missiles.
But, the bilateral defense agreement remains a source of strain, with the former president earlier stating that the nation should contribute more for stationing US troops on its soil.
Trade Expectations and Negotiations
Not many anticipate significant agreements on economic issues during the visit, especially after recent duty adjustments provided some relief to the country's economy.
The PM is expected to pursue further benefits by committing to increased acquisitions of American products, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and gas.
Individual Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Connection
The importance Trump attributes to individual chemistry could work in the PM's advantage, given her strong relationship with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was among his favorite world leaders.
He was the initial foreign leader to meet Trump after his election, and the pair developed a strong relationship over mutual interests such as the sport.
Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Implications
Trump's visit to the country will begin with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in the capital.
It will be succeeded by talks with Takaichi at the official residence, the very venue where he met with Abe in 2019.
Afterward, Trump will travel to South Korea for the APEC summit, where he is scheduled to meet China's leader Xi.
