The New PM Hopes to Benefit from Abe's Connection in Crucial Talks with Trump.
The nation's recently chosen prime minister, Takaichi, is ready to confront her initial significant foreign policy examination as she sits down with ex-President Donald Trump for important talks in Tokyo.
The focus of their summit is anticipated to focus on trade and defense issues, signaling a key juncture for Japan's relationship with its powerful ally.
A Historic Leadership and International Debut
The new PM, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after winning the leadership of the ruling LDP, had her global debut at the recent Asean meeting.
But, her upcoming talks with Trump is considered the real test that will set the tone for future bilateral relations.
Navigating Internal and International Challenges
The prime minister deals with a possibly shaky political situation, having formed a partnership that leaves her two seats away of a majority in the powerful lower house of parliament.
This means, her government will rely on other lawmakers to pass legislation, adding a element of difficulty to her leadership.
Common Perspectives and Diverging Interests
She shares Trump's suspicion of China's military presence in the Asia-Pacific, yet both nations have experienced challenges from his "America-first" economic policies.
Recently, Trump oversaw a ceasefire deal between Thailand and Cambodia forces during the first leg of his Asia visit.
Military Expansion and Spending Pledges
The leader has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, planning to increase military expenditure to two percent of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.
This step aligns with a longstanding demand from the former US leader and represents the biggest military buildup for Japan since the Second World War.
Security Cooperation and Tensions
The country has also moved to obtain "counterstrike" capabilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the US, and intends to use locally made longer-range systems.
But, the two-way defense agreement is still a point of tension, with the former president earlier stating that the nation should contribute more for hosting US forces on its territory.
Economic Outlook and Talks
Few anticipate significant agreements on trade matters this week, particularly after recent duty adjustments provided a degree of ease to Japan's economy.
The PM is expected to seek additional benefits by committing to greater acquisitions of American goods, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and gas.
Personal Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link
The importance Trump places on individual chemistry could benefit the PM's advantage, given her strong relationship with assassinated ex-leader Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite international figures.
He was the initial international leader to visit Trump after his election, and the pair built a strong relationship over shared activities such as golf.
Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Implications
The former president's trip to the country will start with a audience with the Emperor at the royal residence in the capital.
It will be followed by discussions with Takaichi at the official residence, the same venue where Trump met with the former leader in previous years.
Afterward, the former president will proceed to the Republic of Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is set to engage with China's leader Xi.
