The Recently Appointed Prime Minister Hopes to Benefit from Abe's Legacy in Important Negotiations with Trump.
The nation's freshly appointed prime minister, Takaichi, is ready to confront her primary foreign policy challenge as she sits down with ex-President Donald Trump for crucial negotiations in the Japanese capital.
The focus of their meeting is expected to focus on economic and security matters, representing a critical moment for Japan's relationship with its powerful partner.
A Notable Premiership and International Introduction
The new PM, who just became Japan's initial woman leader after securing the top position of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, had her global introduction at the recent ASEAN summit.
But, her upcoming talks with the former president is considered the real test that will set the tone for future two-way cooperation.
Handling Domestic and International Challenges
Takaichi confronts a potentially shaky government landscape, having established a partnership that puts her two seats away of a majority in the influential lower house of parliament.
Consequently, her government will rely on opposition MPs to approve laws, adding a layer of complexity to her leadership.
Common Views and Differing Interests
Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of China's defense activities in the Asia-Pacific, yet both nations have experienced issues from Trump's "America-first" trade approach.
Lately, Trump oversaw a ceasefire deal between Thai and Cambodia forces during the initial stage of his Asia tour.
Military Expansion and Budget Pledges
The leader has stated her determination to accelerate Japan's military build-up, planning to raise military expenditure to 2% of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.
This step matches a long-held demand from the former US leader and signifies the largest defense expansion for the nation since the WWII.
Defense Cooperation and Strains
The country has also taken steps to acquire "retaliatory" abilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the United States, and intends to use locally made extended-range systems.
However, the bilateral defense agreement remains a source of strain, with the former president earlier suggesting that Japan should pay more for stationing American forces on its soil.
Trade Expectations and Negotiations
Not many anticipate significant agreements on trade issues this week, especially after latest tariff adjustments provided some ease to Japan's export sector.
The PM is expected to seek additional benefits by promising increased acquisitions of American goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.
Personal Rapport and the Abe Connection
The importance Trump places on personal rapport could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her close relationship with assassinated former prime minister Abe, who was one of his preferred world leaders.
He was the first international leader to meet Trump after his election, and the pair built a close bond over shared activities such as the sport.
Upcoming Schedule and International Significance
The former president's visit to the country will begin with a meeting with the Emperor at the royal residence in Tokyo.
It will be followed by discussions with the PM at the state guest house, the very venue where Trump held talks with Abe in 2019.
Afterward, the former president will travel to South Korea for the APEC summit, where he is set to meet China's leader Xi Jinping.