Japan, suffering under China's economic retaliation, is turning to President Trump for support during a meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York City.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will discuss China's aggressive economic and security measures with Mr. Trump, including restrictions on rare earth mineral exports. The tensions stem from Ms. Takaichi's comments in November defending Taiwan, which drew Beijing's ire. China responded with travel bans, seafood import restrictions, and reduced critical mineral exports.

Ms. Takaichi aims to persuade Mr. Trump to maintain US security commitments in East Asia, including the more than 50,000 American troops stationed in Japan. Kenneth R. Weinstein of the Hudson Institute noted her strong relationship with Mr. Trump and her goal to present a united front against Xi Jinping.

The economic pressure has intensified, with Chinese tourism to Japan down 59 percent in August year-over-year, and rare earth magnet exports falling sharply. In July, China exported 122 tons of rare earth magnets to Japan, a 52 percent drop from the previous year. Ms. Takaichi's government has attempted re-engagement through diplomatic and business delegations to Beijing ahead of the APEC forum in Shenzhen in November.