Japan's Recently Appointed Prime Minister Aims to Benefit from Shinzo Abe's Legacy in Important Talks with Trump.
The nation's newly elected leader, Takaichi, is ready to confront her initial significant foreign policy test as she sits down with ex-President Donald Trump for high-stakes negotiations in the Japanese capital.
The focus of their encounter is expected to center on economic and security topics, representing a pivotal juncture for Japan's ties with its influential ally.
The Significant Leadership and Global Introduction
The new PM, who just assumed the role of Japan's initial woman prime minister after winning the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, made her global introduction at the latest Asean meeting.
But, her upcoming meeting with Trump is considered the true challenge that will establish the direction for future bilateral relations.
Managing Internal and Global Challenges
Takaichi faces a possibly shaky political situation, having established a coalition that leaves her two seats short of a controlling number in the powerful chamber of the Diet.
This means, her government will rely on opposition MPs to approve laws, adding a element of complexity to her leadership.
Shared Views and Diverging Interests
She shares Trump's suspicion of Chinese defense activities in the region, but both countries have experienced issues from his "America-first" trade approach.
Recently, the former president facilitated a ceasefire deal between Thai and Cambodia authorities on the initial stage of his Asian visit.
Military Build-up and Budget Commitments
The leader has expressed 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 move matches a long-held demand from the former US leader and signifies the largest military expansion for the nation since the WWII.
Defense Partnership and Tensions
The country has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the United States, and plans to use locally made longer-range systems.
But, the bilateral defense agreement remains a source of tension, with the former president earlier suggesting that Japan should pay more for hosting US troops on its soil.
Trade Outlook and Talks
Few anticipate significant concessions on trade issues during the visit, particularly after recent tariff adjustments offered a degree of ease to the country's export sector.
The PM is expected to pursue further benefits by committing to increased purchases of American goods, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and gas.
Personal Rapport and the Abe Link
The value Trump places on personal rapport could work in the PM's favor, given her close relationship with the late former prime minister Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite world leaders.
Abe was the initial foreign leader to visit Trump after his victory, and the pair developed a close relationship over mutual interests such as golf.
Forthcoming Schedule and International Implications
The former president's trip to the country will start with a meeting with the Emperor at the royal residence in the capital.
This will be succeeded by talks with the PM at the state guest house, the very location where Trump met with Abe in previous years.
Afterward, Trump will travel to South Korea for the Apec summit, where he is set to meet China's leader Xi Jinping.
