The New PM Hopes to Benefit from Shinzo Abe's Connection in Important Talks with Donald Trump.
The nation's recently chosen leader, Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her primary diplomatic challenge as she meets ex-President Donald Trump for important negotiations in Tokyo.
The focus of their meeting is anticipated to focus on economic and security matters, representing a key moment for Japan's ties with its influential ally.
The Historic Leadership and Global Debut
The new PM, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female prime minister after securing the top position of the ruling LDP, had her global introduction at the recent ASEAN meeting.
However, her upcoming talks with Trump is regarded as the true test that will set the tone for future two-way cooperation.
Managing Domestic and International Challenges
Takaichi faces a potentially unstable political landscape, having established a coalition that puts her two seats away of a controlling number in the powerful lower house of the Diet.
This means, her government will depend on opposition MPs to approve legislation, introducing a element of complexity to her governance.
Common Views and Differing Policies
Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of China's defense presence in the region, yet both nations have faced challenges from Trump's "America-first" trade policies.
Lately, Trump oversaw a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodian authorities during the initial stage of his Asia tour.
Defense Expansion and Budget Pledges
Takaichi has expressed her determination to speed up Japan's military expansion, planning to raise military expenditure to 2% of gross domestic product by the end of March.
This step matches a longstanding request from Trump and represents the biggest military buildup for the nation since the Second World War.
Security Cooperation and Strains
The country has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise missiles from the US, and plans to deploy domestically developed extended-range missiles.
However, the bilateral security agreement is still a source of strain, with the former president previously stating that Japan should contribute more for hosting US troops on its territory.
Economic Outlook and Talks
Few expect significant agreements on economic matters this week, particularly after latest duty changes offered some ease to Japan's economy.
Takaichi is expected to pursue further benefits by committing to increased acquisitions of US products, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and natural gas.
Personal Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link
The importance Trump places on personal chemistry could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her close relationship with the late former prime minister Abe, who was one of Trump's preferred world leaders.
Abe was the first international leader to visit Trump after his victory, and the pair developed a close relationship over mutual interests such as the sport.
Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Implications
Trump's visit to the country will start with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the royal residence in Tokyo.
It will be followed by discussions with the PM at the state guest house, the same venue where Trump met with Abe in previous years.
Subsequently, Trump will travel to the Republic of Korea for the APEC summit, where he is set to engage with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.