Credited from: AA
US President Donald Trump is scheduled to visit Japan for three days starting Monday, marking his first trip to the country in nearly six years. During this visit, Trump will engage in crucial talks with Japan's newly elected Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and meet with Emperor Naruhito. Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara emphasized the importance of the visit, stating, "President Trump's visit is an extremely meaningful opportunity to further strengthen the Japan-US alliance," reflecting Takaichi's government's welcome of the trip, according to South China Morning Post, Anadolu Agency, and The Jakarta Post.
During his stay, Trump and Takaichi are likely to discuss important regional security issues, particularly concerning North Korea's missile programs and China's military actions in East and South China Seas. Takaichi has a strong conservative background, analogous to former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who fostered a close relationship with Trump during his earlier term. Reports suggest Takaichi will seek US support for addressing the abduction of Japanese nationals by North Korea in the 1970s and 1980s, with some family members potentially meeting Trump, according to South China Morning Post and The Jakarta Post.
In addition to security discussions, Takaichi has announced a new economic package aimed at mitigating the challenges posed by rising inflation, which is a critical concern for the populace. She called for subsidies on electricity and gas charges, focusing on targeted economic interventions rather than broad cash handouts, emphasizing a strong economic strategy, as noted by South China Morning Post and The Jakarta Post.
Moreover, topics related to bilateral trade and defense spending are expected to emerge in conversations, particularly following the July trade agreement which saw some reductions in US tariffs on Japanese goods. Takaichi will likely seek to reinforce Japan's defense funding in light of US pressures, following a previous commitment detailed by Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, as highlighted by Anadolu Agency and The Jakarta Post.