This is the second of a five-part series on Japan's efforts to assess the policies of U.S. President Donald Trump.

Following President Donald Trump's stunning election victory on Nov. 8, Japanese leaders were some of the first to step forward and offer congratulations in what appears to be a bid to ensure they remain in the good graces of the 45th president of the United States.

Their efforts show signs of paying off so far. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe managed to become the first global leader to meet him after the win, with the two taking a photo together at the businessman-turned-politician's glitzy Trump Tower in New York City.