Japan's Recently Appointed Prime Minister Hopes to Utilize Abe's Connection in Important Talks with Trump.
The nation's freshly appointed prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is set to face her first major foreign policy examination as she sits down with former US President Trump for high-stakes discussions in the Japanese capital.
The agenda of their summit is likely to center on trade and defense matters, representing a critical juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its influential ally.
A Notable Leadership and International Debut
The new PM, who just became Japan's first female prime minister after winning the top position of the governing Liberal Democratic Party, made her global introduction at the latest Asean meeting.
However, her forthcoming meeting with the former president is seen as the real test that will set the tone for coming two-way cooperation.
Managing Domestic and Global Challenges
The prime minister faces a potentially shaky government landscape, having formed a coalition that puts her a couple of votes away of a controlling number in the powerful chamber of the Diet.
This means, her administration will rely on other lawmakers to approve legislation, introducing a layer of difficulty to her leadership.
Shared Perspectives and Differing Policies
Takaichi holds the former president's suspicion of Chinese defense activities in the Asia-Pacific, but both nations have faced issues from his "America-first" economic approach.
Recently, the former president facilitated a truce deal between Thailand and Cambodian authorities on the first stage of his Asia visit.
Defense Build-up and Budget Commitments
Takaichi has stated her commitment to speed up Japan's defense build-up, planning to increase military spending to 2% of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.
This move matches a longstanding demand from Trump and signifies the largest military buildup for the nation since the Second World War.
Security Partnership and Strains
Japan has also moved to obtain "counterstrike" capabilities, including Tomahawk weapons from the US, and plans to use locally made extended-range missiles.
But, the bilateral security treaty remains a point of tension, with Trump previously stating that Japan should contribute more for stationing American troops on its territory.
Trade Outlook and Talks
Few expect significant concessions on trade issues this week, particularly after recent tariff changes offered some relief to Japan's economy.
The PM is likely to seek further relief by committing to increased purchases of American goods, including vehicles, soybeans, and natural gas.
Personal Chemistry and the Abe Link
The importance the former president places on individual rapport could benefit the PM's favor, given her strong ties with the late ex-leader Shinzo Abe, who was one of Trump's favorite world leaders.
Abe was the first foreign figure to meet the then president-elect after his election, and the two developed a strong bond over mutual activities such as golf.
Forthcoming Schedule and International Significance
Trump's trip to Japan will start with a audience with the Emperor at the royal residence in the capital.
It will be succeeded by talks with Takaichi at the official residence, the very location where Trump met with Abe in previous years.
Subsequently, Trump will travel to South Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is set to engage with China's president Xi Jinping.
