Black is a very classical move. Naturally it is more slow-paced than the closer pincers.
White's traditional replies are at a for immediate life, or at b, taking up position while waiting to see what Black has in mind.
With and
, White has enough room to live. Black plays next at a to keep White shut in, or b.
White can also come out with . That leaves a shape point at a that Black can play later. It also allows Black a more efficient shape than in the next variation.
Comparing with this order of play, White here first seems more consistent.