Japan's Recently Appointed PM Aims to Benefit from Shinzo Abe's Influence in Important Discussions with Trump.
The nation's freshly appointed leader, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to confront her initial significant foreign policy test as she meets former US President Donald Trump for important negotiations in the Japanese capital.
The focus of their meeting is expected to revolve around economic and security topics, signaling a pivotal moment for Japan's relationship with its influential partner.
The Historic Premiership and International Introduction
Takaichi, who recently assumed the role of Japan's initial woman prime minister after winning the leadership of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, made her international debut at the latest ASEAN summit.
But, her forthcoming talks with Trump is considered the true test that will set the tone for coming two-way cooperation.
Navigating Domestic and Global Pressures
Takaichi confronts a potentially shaky government situation, having established a coalition that puts her two seats away of a majority in the powerful lower house of the Diet.
This means, her administration will depend on other lawmakers to pass laws, adding a element of complexity to her governance.
Common Perspectives and Differing Interests
Takaichi shares the former president's wariness of Chinese defense activities in the Asia-Pacific, but each countries have faced issues from his "America-first" trade approach.
Recently, the former president oversaw a ceasefire deal between Thai and Cambodia forces during the initial leg of his Asian tour.
Defense Build-up and Budget Pledges
Takaichi has stated her determination to accelerate Japan's military build-up, aiming to increase defense spending to two percent of GDP by the end of March.
This step matches a longstanding request from Trump and signifies the largest military expansion for Japan since the Second World War.
Security Cooperation and Tensions
The country has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including cruise missiles from the United States, and plans to deploy domestically developed extended-range systems.
However, the bilateral defense agreement is still a source of strain, with Trump previously stating that Japan should contribute more for hosting US troops on its territory.
Economic Outlook and Negotiations
Not many anticipate significant agreements on trade matters this week, particularly after latest tariff changes provided some relief to Japan's export sector.
The PM is expected to seek further benefits by promising increased purchases of US products, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and natural gas.
Individual Chemistry and the Abe Connection
The importance the former president places on individual chemistry could benefit the PM's advantage, given her close relationship with the late former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was among his preferred world leaders.
Abe was the first foreign leader to visit the then president-elect after his election, and the two built a strong relationship over mutual activities such as golf.
Forthcoming Schedule and Regional Implications
The former president's trip to Japan will start with a audience with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.
It will be followed by talks with Takaichi at the state guest house, the very location where Trump met with the former leader in 2019.
Subsequently, Trump will proceed to South Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is scheduled to meet China's leader Xi Jinping.
