The New PM Seeks to Benefit from Abe's Connection in Important Negotiations with Trump.
Japan's newly elected leader, Takaichi, is ready to undertake her first major diplomatic test as she meets former US President Trump for high-stakes negotiations in Tokyo.
The focus of their summit is likely to center on economic and defense topics, representing a pivotal moment for Japan's ties with its influential partner.
The Significant Premiership and International Introduction
The new PM, who just assumed the role of Japan's first female prime minister after winning the top position of the ruling LDP, had her global debut at the latest Asean meeting.
But, her upcoming meeting with Trump is seen as the true challenge that will set the tone for coming two-way relations.
Handling Domestic and Global Challenges
Takaichi deals with a possibly shaky political landscape, having formed a partnership that puts her two seats away of a controlling number in the influential chamber of parliament.
This means, her administration will rely on opposition MPs to pass laws, adding a element of difficulty to her leadership.
Shared Perspectives and Differing Interests
Takaichi shares the former president's suspicion of Chinese military presence in the region, yet both countries have faced challenges from Trump's "America-first" trade policies.
Recently, the former president facilitated a truce deal between Thailand and Cambodia authorities on the initial leg of his Asian tour.
Military Expansion and Spending Pledges
The leader has expressed her commitment to speed up Japan's military expansion, aiming to increase defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.
This move aligns with a long-held request from the former US leader and represents the biggest defense buildup for the nation since the Second World War.
Security Cooperation and Tensions
Japan has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the United States, and plans to use domestically developed longer-range systems.
But, the bilateral security agreement is still a source of tension, with Trump earlier stating that Japan should contribute more for stationing US troops on its territory.
Economic Expectations and Talks
Few anticipate significant concessions on trade matters during the visit, particularly after latest duty changes offered some ease to the country's economy.
The PM is expected to seek further benefits by promising increased purchases of US goods, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and gas.
Individual Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link
The value the former president attributes to personal rapport could benefit the PM's favor, given her strong relationship with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was one of his favorite international figures.
Abe was the initial international leader to meet Trump after his victory, and the pair built a strong bond over mutual interests such as the sport.
Upcoming Schedule and Regional Implications
The former president's visit to Japan will begin with a audience with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.
This will be followed by talks with the PM at the state guest house, the very venue where he met with the former leader in previous years.
Subsequently, Trump will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is scheduled to meet China's president Xi.
