🔗 Share this article

Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to undertake her initial significant foreign policy test as she meets former US President Trump for important talks in the Japanese capital.

The agenda of their summit is expected to revolve around economic and defense issues, marking a key moment for Tokyo's relationship with its powerful partner.

A Notable Premiership and International Debut

Takaichi, who just assumed the role of Japan's first female prime minister after securing the leadership of the ruling LDP, made her international debut at the recent ASEAN meeting.

But, her upcoming meeting with Trump is regarded as the true challenge that will establish the direction for future two-way relations.

Navigating Domestic and Global Pressures

The prime minister deals with a potentially shaky political situation, having established a coalition that puts her two seats short of a majority in the powerful lower house of parliament.

This means, her government will depend on opposition MPs to approve laws, adding a layer of complexity to her governance.

Shared Perspectives and Differing Interests

Takaichi shares the former president's wariness of China's military activities in the Asia-Pacific, yet each countries have experienced issues from his "America-first" trade approach.

Recently, the former president facilitated a truce agreement between Thailand and Cambodian forces on the first leg of his Asian visit.

Military Build-up and Budget Pledges

Takaichi has expressed her commitment to accelerate Japan's military build-up, aiming to increase defense expenditure to 2% of gross domestic product by the end of March.

This step aligns with a longstanding request from the former US leader and signifies the largest defense buildup for Japan since the WWII.

Defense Partnership and Tensions

Japan has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and intends to use domestically developed extended-range missiles.

However, the two-way security treaty remains a point of strain, with the former president previously stating that Japan should contribute more for stationing American forces on its soil.

Trade Outlook and Negotiations

Few expect significant agreements on trade matters during the visit, especially after latest duty changes provided a degree of ease to Japan's export sector.

The PM is likely to seek additional relief by committing to greater acquisitions of American goods, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Connection

The importance Trump attributes to personal rapport could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her close ties with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was among his favorite world leaders.

Abe was the first international figure to visit the then president-elect after his election, and the two built a close bond over mutual activities such as the sport.

Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Significance

Trump's visit to the country will start with a meeting with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

It will be followed by talks with the PM at the state guest house, the very location where Trump met with the former leader in 2019.

Subsequently, the former president will travel to South Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is scheduled to meet China's leader Xi Jinping.