If Trump’s principal objective in Asia is geopolitical–the flexible containment of China–he should be making deals to cut tariffs with China’s neighbors. If his overriding goal is not geopolitical, but to create a lasting trade deal with China, he should nonetheless cozy up to our traditional allies in order to create leverage with the CCP. If his goals revolve around trade, however, and he makes no distinction between our allies and the Chinese, there is no reason to deepen our relationships with anyone in Asia. Which option will Trump choose?
Option #1 is unlikely. I can’t tell if he prefers Option #2 or Option #3. Chances are, he doesn’t know himself.