The Recently Appointed PM Hopes to Benefit from Shinzo Abe's Legacy in Key Talks with Trump.
The nation's freshly appointed prime minister, Takaichi, is ready to face her initial significant foreign policy examination as she engages with former US President Donald Trump for high-stakes discussions in Tokyo.
The focus of their summit is expected to center on trade and security matters, marking a key moment for Tokyo's relationship with its influential partner.
A Notable Leadership and International Introduction
The new PM, who just became Japan's first female leader after winning the leadership of the governing LDP, made her global introduction at the latest Asean meeting.
However, her upcoming talks with Trump is seen as the real test that will set the tone for coming bilateral cooperation.
Navigating Internal and Global Pressures
The prime minister confronts a potentially unstable political landscape, having formed a partnership that leaves her two seats short of a controlling number in the powerful chamber of the Diet.
Consequently, her administration will depend on other lawmakers to pass legislation, adding a element of difficulty to her governance.
Shared Views and Differing Interests
Takaichi shares Trump's suspicion of Chinese defense presence in the Asia-Pacific, but both nations have faced issues from his "America-first" trade approach.
Recently, the former president facilitated a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodian forces on the first leg of his Asia tour.
Military Expansion and Budget Pledges
Takaichi has expressed her commitment to speed up Japan's military build-up, planning to raise defense expenditure to 2% of gross domestic product by the end of March.
This move matches a long-held demand from Trump and signifies the biggest military expansion for Japan since the WWII.
Security Partnership and Tensions
The country has also taken steps to acquire "counterstrike" abilities, including cruise missiles from the US, and intends to use locally made extended-range missiles.
However, the bilateral defense treaty is still a source of tension, with Trump previously stating that Japan should contribute more for stationing US forces on its soil.
Trade Expectations and Talks
Few expect significant agreements on trade issues during the visit, particularly after latest duty adjustments offered some relief to the country's export sector.
Takaichi is expected to pursue further relief by promising increased purchases of US goods, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and gas.
Individual Chemistry and the Abe Connection
The value Trump attributes to personal rapport could work in the PM's advantage, given her strong relationship with the late ex-leader Abe, who was one of his preferred international figures.
Abe was the first international figure to visit Trump after his election, and the two developed a strong bond over mutual interests such as golf.
Forthcoming Agenda and Regional Implications
The former president's visit to the country will start with a audience with the Emperor at the royal residence in the capital.
It will be followed by talks with the PM at the official residence, the very location where Trump held talks with Abe in previous years.
Afterward, Trump will travel to the Republic of Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is set to meet China's leader Xi Jinping.
