Japan's New PM Aims to Leverage Abe's Legacy in Key Negotiations with Donald Trump.
The nation's recently chosen prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is preparing to face her primary foreign policy test as she sits down with ex-President Donald Trump for high-stakes negotiations in Tokyo.
The focus of their encounter is likely to center on trade and defense matters, marking a pivotal juncture for Tokyo's relationship with its influential ally.
The Historic Leadership and Global Introduction
The new PM, who recently became Japan's first female leader after winning the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had her international introduction at the latest Asean summit.
But, her upcoming meeting with Trump is considered the true test that will set the tone for coming two-way relations.
Handling Domestic and International Challenges
Takaichi confronts a potentially unstable government landscape, having formed a partnership that leaves her a couple of votes short of a controlling number in the influential chamber of parliament.
Consequently, her government will depend on opposition MPs to approve legislation, adding a element of difficulty to her leadership.
Shared Views and Differing Policies
She shares Trump's suspicion of Chinese military presence in the region, but each nations have faced challenges from his "US-first" economic policies.
Lately, the former president facilitated a ceasefire deal between Thailand and Cambodian forces during the first leg of his Asia visit.
Military Expansion and Spending Pledges
The leader has expressed her determination to speed up Japan's military expansion, aiming to raise military expenditure to 2% of gross domestic product by the close of the fiscal year.
This step matches a long-held demand from Trump and signifies the largest military buildup for Japan since the WWII.
Security Cooperation and Strains
The country has also taken steps to obtain "counterstrike" abilities, including cruise weapons from the United States, and intends to deploy domestically developed longer-range systems.
But, the bilateral security treaty remains a point of tension, with the former president previously suggesting that the nation should contribute more for hosting American troops on its soil.
Trade Expectations and Negotiations
Not many anticipate major concessions on economic issues during the visit, especially after recent duty adjustments offered some relief to the country's economy.
Takaichi is expected to seek further benefits by committing to increased purchases of American products, including pickup trucks, agricultural produce, and natural gas.
Personal Chemistry and the Abe Link
The value Trump places on personal chemistry could work in the PM's favor, given her close relationship with the late former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was among his favorite world leaders.
Abe was the initial foreign figure to meet Trump after his election, and the pair developed a strong relationship over shared activities such as golf.
Forthcoming Schedule and International Implications
Trump's visit to the country will start with a audience with Emperor Naruhito at the royal residence in Tokyo.
It will be followed by discussions with Takaichi at the state guest house, the same venue where Trump met with Abe in 2019.
Subsequently, the former president will travel to South Korea for the Apec summit, where he is scheduled to meet China's leader Xi.
