Japan PM to hold ‘difficult’ talks with Trump as Iran conflict looms large

Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is preparing for a challenging meeting with US President Donald Trump, focusing on trade and alliance issues amidst concerns over the war affecting the Strait of Hormuz.

Prior to her departure, Takaichi emphasized her intent to prioritize Japan’s national interests during the three-day visit, which had initially been planned to strengthen ties following a successful election.

However, recent calls by Trump for allies, including Japan, to secure the vital strait due to its economic implications for Asian nations, cast a shadow over the meeting, especially after his request was met with reluctance.

Analysts indicate Takaichi may face difficulty in refusing potential demands from Trump for Japan’s military involvement, considering Japan’s pacifist constitution and public disapproval of such actions.

The meeting will also address concerns about Chinese aggression, a key issue for Japan, particularly following Takaichi’s previous comments on Taiwan, which strained relations with Beijing.

Overall, Takaichi’s visit appears to be a critical test of her political acumen and friendship with Trump in a complex geopolitical environment.

Takaichi is anticipated to highlight the issue of China, identified as Japan’s “biggest strategic challenge,” particularly in light of Japan’s potential activation of its self-defense forces if Taiwan is attacked, a claim that has strained Sino-Japanese relations since November.

Takaichi’s upcoming meeting with Trump is expected to involve discussions on Japan’s involvement in the US’s Golden Dome missile defense system, with an initial budget of $25bn allocated for the initiative, which draws inspiration from Israel’s Iron Dome.

The outcome of their meeting remains uncertain, heavily reliant on Trump’s mood, as noted by commentators who emphasize his transactional approach to alliances.

Additionally, Japan’s economic condition, characterized by rising inflation and a weak yen, makes establishing a stable economic partnership with the US critical.

Takaichi is likely to present herself as a cooperative leader to enhance trade ties, following commitments made by Japan to meet tariff reduction requirements.

She may announce further investments worth $100bn during her meeting, although the backdrop of an unfair trade practice investigation initiated by Washington raises concerns over potential new tariffs that could disadvantage Japan in negotiations.