Japan's Recently Appointed Prime Minister Aims to Utilize Abe's Influence in Crucial Discussions with Trump.
Japan's recently chosen prime minister, Takaichi, is preparing to confront her first major foreign policy challenge as she meets former US President Trump for high-stakes talks in Tokyo.
Attention of their encounter is anticipated to center on economic and security topics, signaling a key moment for Japan's ties with its influential ally.
A Significant Premiership and International Debut
Takaichi, who recently assumed the role of Japan's first female leader after securing the leadership of the governing LDP, made her global debut at the recent ASEAN summit.
But, her forthcoming talks with Trump is considered the real test that will establish the direction for future bilateral cooperation.
Handling Domestic and International Pressures
The prime minister confronts a possibly unstable government landscape, having formed a coalition that puts her two seats away of a majority in the influential lower house of parliament.
This means, her government will rely on other lawmakers to approve laws, adding a element of difficulty to her leadership.
Shared Perspectives and Differing Interests
She shares Trump's wariness of China's defense activities in the Asia-Pacific, yet both nations have faced challenges from his "America-first" economic approach.
Recently, the former president oversaw a ceasefire deal between Thailand and Cambodian authorities on the initial leg of his Asia visit.
Military Expansion and Budget Pledges
The leader has stated her determination to speed up Japan's military build-up, aiming to increase military expenditure to two percent of GDP by the end of March.
This step aligns with a longstanding demand from Trump and represents the biggest military buildup for the nation since the Second World War.
Security Cooperation and Tensions
Japan has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" abilities, including cruise missiles from the US, and intends to use domestically developed longer-range systems.
However, the bilateral security treaty is still a point of tension, with Trump previously stating that the nation should contribute more for hosting American forces on its soil.
Trade Outlook and Negotiations
Not many anticipate major agreements on economic issues this week, particularly after recent tariff changes offered some ease to the country's economy.
Takaichi is likely to seek further benefits by promising increased acquisitions of American products, including vehicles, agricultural produce, and gas.
Personal Chemistry and the Abe Link
The importance the former president places on personal rapport could benefit Takaichi's advantage, given her close ties with the late ex-leader Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite international figures.
Abe was the first foreign leader to visit Trump after his victory, and the pair developed a strong relationship over mutual interests such as golf.
Upcoming Schedule and International Implications
Trump's trip to the country will begin with a audience with the Emperor at the royal residence in the capital.
This will be succeeded by discussions with the PM at the state guest house, the same venue where Trump met with the former leader in previous years.
Subsequently, the former president will travel to the Republic of Korea for the APEC summit, where he is scheduled to meet China's president Xi.
