The Recently Appointed Prime Minister Hopes to Benefit from Abe's Connection in Key Discussions with Donald Trump.
Japan's freshly appointed prime minister, Takaichi, is ready to face her initial significant foreign policy challenge as she meets former US President Trump for important discussions in the Japanese capital.
Attention of their meeting is anticipated to focus on trade and security topics, signaling a key moment for Tokyo's ties with its powerful partner.
A Notable Premiership and International Debut
The new PM, who just assumed the role of Japan's initial woman prime minister after winning the top position of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, made her international debut at the recent ASEAN summit.
However, her forthcoming talks with the former president is regarded as the true test that will establish the direction for coming two-way cooperation.
Navigating Internal and Global Pressures
Takaichi deals with a potentially unstable political situation, having established a partnership that leaves her two seats short of a majority in the influential chamber of the Diet.
This means, her administration will rely on other lawmakers to pass legislation, adding a layer of difficulty to her governance.
Common Views and Differing Interests
Takaichi shares the former president's wariness of China's defense presence in the region, yet both countries have faced challenges from Trump's "US-first" trade approach.
Lately, Trump oversaw a truce deal between Thailand and Cambodia forces on the first leg of his Asian tour.
Defense Build-up and Budget Commitments
The leader has expressed her determination to speed up Japan's military build-up, planning to raise military spending to 2% of gross domestic product by the end of March.
This move aligns with a longstanding demand from Trump and signifies the largest military expansion for Japan since the WWII.
Defense Cooperation and Strains
Japan has also taken steps to obtain "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and plans to use domestically developed longer-range systems.
However, the bilateral security agreement remains a source of tension, with the former president earlier suggesting that the nation should pay more for hosting American troops on its territory.
Trade Outlook and Negotiations
Not many expect major concessions on economic matters during the visit, especially after recent duty changes offered some ease to the country's export sector.
Takaichi is expected to seek additional benefits by committing to increased purchases of US products, including vehicles, soybeans, and natural gas.
Individual Rapport and the Shinzo Abe Link
The value Trump attributes to personal chemistry could benefit Takaichi's favor, given her close relationship with assassinated former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was one of his favorite international figures.
Abe was the first foreign figure to visit the then president-elect after his election, and the pair built a close relationship over mutual interests such as the sport.
Forthcoming Agenda and Regional Significance
Trump's visit to Japan will start with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in the capital.
It will be followed by discussions with the PM at the state guest house, the same venue where he held talks with Abe in previous years.
Afterward, Trump will travel to the Republic of Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is scheduled to engage with China's leader Xi.