US bans personnel in China from romantic ties with Chinese citizens

The United States government has prohibited its officials in China from engaging in romantic or sexual relationships with Chinese citizens.

Reports says the US intelligence agencies have warned that China uses romantic and sexual relationships to gather sensitive information from foreign diplomats.

Former U.S. Ambassador to China, Nicholas Burns, implemented the policy in January, 2025, before leaving office.

According to Associated Press (AP), the ban applies to diplomats, contractors, and family members with security clearances.

Previously, the U.S. government restricted only relationships between American personnel and Chinese embassy guards or support staff.

Burns expanded the policy in January, 2025, banning all romantic ties with Chinese citizens.

The U.S. government has not officially announced the new directive.

Officials who violate the policy must leave China immediately.

Personnel in existing relationships with Chinese citizens can apply for exemptions.

Authorities will require them to end the relationship or resign if they fail to secure an exemption.

Lawmakers pushed for stricter regulations after raising concerns about potential security risks.

U.S. officials stationed in China receive security briefings about potential espionage threats through personal relationships.

The policy covers U.S. embassies and consulates in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Wuhan, and Shenyang.

Hong Kong’s American consulate also falls under the directive, but the ban does not apply to personnel outside China.

China’s foreign ministry declined to comment, stating that the policy concerns U.S. internal matters.

Chinese authorities enforce strict rules preventing government officials from forming romantic ties with foreign citizens.

Beijing closely monitors its diplomats and limits the duration of their postings in specific countries.

Historically, intelligence services have used such strategies, particularly during the Cold War.

A similar policy was enacted in 1987 after a U.S. Marine in Moscow was allegedly seduced by a Soviet spy.

The restrictions were relaxed following the Soviet Union’s collapse.

Tensions between the U.S. and China have escalated, prompting tighter security measures from both governments.

Global security experts believe Washington introduced the policy to counter China’s growing intelligence activities targeting U.S. officials.

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook