The Recently Appointed Prime Minister Hopes to Benefit from Abe's Connection in Key Discussions with Donald Trump.
The nation's freshly appointed leader, Takaichi, is ready to undertake her initial significant diplomatic examination as she engages with ex-President Donald Trump for high-stakes talks in Tokyo.
The focus of their summit is likely to center on economic and security issues, signaling a critical juncture for Japan's relationship with its influential ally.
A Significant Premiership and International Introduction
Takaichi, who just assumed the role of Japan's initial woman leader after winning the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had her global debut at the latest ASEAN meeting.
But, her forthcoming talks with Trump is regarded as the real challenge that will set the tone for coming two-way relations.
Navigating Internal and International Challenges
The prime minister faces a possibly shaky political situation, having established a coalition that puts her two seats away of a controlling number in the powerful chamber of parliament.
Consequently, her government will depend on opposition lawmakers to approve laws, adding a element of complexity to her leadership.
Shared Perspectives and Diverging Interests
She holds Trump's suspicion of Chinese defense activities in the region, but each nations have faced issues from his "US-first" economic approach.
Lately, Trump facilitated a truce agreement between Thai and Cambodia forces during the initial stage of his Asia tour.
Defense Expansion and Budget Pledges
Takaichi has stated her commitment to accelerate Japan's defense expansion, aiming to increase military spending to 2% of GDP by the end of March.
This move matches a long-held request from the former US leader and represents the largest defense expansion for the nation since the Second World War.
Security Partnership and Strains
Japan has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" abilities, including cruise weapons from the United States, and intends to use domestically developed longer-range missiles.
However, the bilateral defense treaty remains a source of strain, with Trump previously stating that the nation should contribute more for hosting American troops on its soil.
Economic Expectations and Negotiations
Not many anticipate major concessions on trade issues during the visit, especially after recent duty adjustments provided a degree of relief to the country's export sector.
The PM is likely to pursue further relief by committing to increased acquisitions of American products, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and gas.
Individual Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Connection
The importance Trump places on individual chemistry could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her strong ties with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of Trump's preferred international figures.
He was the first international leader to visit the then president-elect after his victory, and the two developed a close relationship over shared activities such as the sport.
Upcoming Agenda and International Significance
Trump's trip to Japan will begin with a meeting with Emperor Naruhito at the royal residence in Tokyo.
This will be succeeded by talks with the PM at the state guest house, the same venue where he held talks with the former leader in previous years.
Afterward, the former president will travel to the Republic of Korea for the Apec summit, where he is set to meet China's leader Xi.
