The New Prime Minister Seeks to Benefit from Abe's Legacy in Important Negotiations with Trump.
The nation's recently chosen leader, Sanae Takaichi, is set to face her primary foreign policy test as she sits down with ex-President Donald Trump for high-stakes discussions in Tokyo.
The focus of their meeting is anticipated to center on trade and security issues, marking a pivotal moment for Tokyo's ties with its powerful partner.
A Historic Leadership and Global Introduction
The new PM, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female prime minister after securing the top position of the ruling LDP, made her international introduction at the recent ASEAN meeting.
But, her forthcoming talks with the former president is considered the true challenge that will establish the direction for future two-way cooperation.
Navigating Internal and Global Challenges
The prime minister deals with a possibly shaky political landscape, having established a partnership that puts her a couple of votes short of a majority in the powerful lower house of parliament.
Consequently, her government will depend on other lawmakers to pass laws, introducing a element of difficulty to her governance.
Shared Perspectives and Differing Policies
She holds the former president's suspicion of Chinese defense presence in the region, yet each countries have experienced challenges from his "US-first" economic policies.
Recently, the former president oversaw a ceasefire agreement between Thai and Cambodia authorities on the initial stage of his Asia visit.
Defense Build-up and Spending Commitments
Takaichi has stated her commitment to accelerate Japan's military expansion, aiming to raise defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product by the end of March.
This move aligns with a longstanding request from the former US leader and represents the largest military buildup for Japan since the WWII.
Defense Partnership and Strains
The country has also moved to obtain "retaliatory" abilities, including Tomahawk missiles from the United States, and plans to use locally made extended-range missiles.
But, the bilateral defense agreement remains a source of tension, with Trump earlier suggesting that Japan should pay more for stationing American forces on its territory.
Trade Outlook and Talks
Not many expect major concessions on trade issues this week, particularly after latest tariff changes provided some ease to Japan's export sector.
Takaichi is expected to pursue additional relief by committing to increased acquisitions of American goods, including pickup trucks, soybeans, and gas.
Individual Chemistry and the Abe Connection
The value Trump places on individual chemistry could work in Takaichi's favor, given her strong relationship with assassinated ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite world leaders.
Abe was the first international leader to meet the then president-elect after his victory, and the two built a close relationship over mutual interests such as the sport.
Forthcoming Agenda and International Significance
Trump's visit to the country will start with a meeting with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.
This will be followed by discussions with the PM at the official residence, the very venue where Trump held talks with Abe in previous years.
Subsequently, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the Apec summit, where he is scheduled to meet China's leader Xi.
