Autonomy serves Australia's interests best

This is a time of unprecedented geopolitical complexity and uncertainty, fresh after the incumbent US administration tried so hard to revive traditional alliances and partnerships. But recalibrating bilateral relations in light of a retrogressive US foreign policy and repositioning themselves on the global stage relative to the US' anticipated policy reversals will be an inevitable balancing act for every US ally and partner.

This certainly will not be an easy one, especially when it comes to a choice between China and the US trade wise, which appears likely considering the hawkish look of the list of the US president-elect's potential picks for his Cabinet.

Australia, however, might offer some useful reference for those struggling to strike such a balance.