The Recently Appointed PM Seeks to Benefit from Abe's Connection in Key Negotiations with Trump.
Japan's freshly appointed prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to confront her primary diplomatic test as she sits down with former US President Trump for important talks in Tokyo.
The focus of their summit is likely to revolve around economic and security topics, signaling a critical juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its influential ally.
A Historic Leadership and International Debut
Takaichi, who recently became Japan's initial woman leader after winning the leadership of the ruling LDP, made her international debut at the latest Asean meeting.
However, her forthcoming talks with the former president is regarded as the real test that will establish the direction for future bilateral relations.
Managing Domestic and International Challenges
The prime minister confronts a potentially shaky political situation, having established a partnership that puts her two seats short of a majority in the influential lower house of parliament.
Consequently, her government will rely on opposition lawmakers to pass laws, adding a layer of complexity to her governance.
Common Views and Differing Policies
Takaichi holds the former president's suspicion of Chinese military activities in the Asia-Pacific, but each nations have experienced issues from Trump's "US-first" economic policies.
Recently, the former president oversaw a truce deal between Thai and Cambodian forces during the first stage of his Asian tour.
Defense Build-up and Spending Pledges
Takaichi has expressed her commitment to accelerate Japan's military expansion, planning to increase military spending to 2% of gross domestic product by the end of March.
This move matches a long-held request from the former US leader and represents the largest defense buildup for the nation since the WWII.
Security Partnership and Strains
The country has also moved to acquire "retaliatory" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the US, and plans to use domestically developed extended-range missiles.
However, the two-way security treaty remains a point of tension, with the former president earlier stating that Japan should pay more for hosting American troops on its soil.
Economic Expectations and Negotiations
Not many anticipate major agreements on trade issues this week, particularly after recent duty changes offered some relief to Japan's economy.
Takaichi is likely to pursue further relief by promising increased purchases of US products, including vehicles, soybeans, and gas.
Individual Chemistry and the Shinzo Abe Link
The value Trump places on personal chemistry could benefit Takaichi's advantage, given her close relationship with assassinated former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was among Trump's favorite world leaders.
Abe was the first international figure to visit Trump after his victory, and the two built a strong relationship over mutual activities such as golf.
Forthcoming Agenda and International Implications
The former president's visit to the country will begin with a audience with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in the capital.
It will be followed by discussions with the PM at the official residence, the very location where Trump held talks with Abe in 2019.
Subsequently, the former president will travel to the Republic of Korea for the APEC meeting, where he is set to meet Chinese president Xi.