U.S. President Donald Trump has arrived in Japan for his first official meeting with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, the country’s newly appointed leader and the first woman to hold the post. The encounter marks an early diplomatic test for Takaichi, who took office last week with a fragile coalition backing her.

Trump’s Asia tour has focused on trade, with efforts to realign the global economy under his “America First” agenda. Officials from the U.S. and China said Sunday that they had reached a preliminary understanding, setting the stage for Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping to aim for a formal deal during a high-stakes meeting later this week.

Markets in China responded positively, with Hong Kong’s Hang Seng rising 1.1% and Shanghai Composite climbing 1.2%, reflecting investor optimism over a potential resolution to months-long trade tensions. Asian shares surged Monday, while European markets remained largely unchanged. Japan’s Nikkei 225 rose 2.5%, hitting a new closing high.

Trump’s trade focus also includes ongoing negotiations with South Korea and the potential for expanded U.S. agricultural exports, particularly soybeans, amid a trade conflict that has opened opportunities for Brazilian producers. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said talks with South Korea remain complex and may require more time.

Ahead of Trump’s visit, Tokyo tightened security, mobilizing 18,000 officers and implementing strict measures at Haneda Airport and key areas in the capital. The president praised Takaichi’s leadership, noting her close ties to former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and expressing confidence in strengthening U.S.-Japan relations.

Trump’s trip follows a stop in Malaysia for the ASEAN summit, where he witnessed a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia and advanced trade discussions with regional leaders. He also used the visit to comment on international and domestic issues, including Argentina’s midterm elections, the Federal Reserve, and ongoing negotiations with North Korea.