U.S. reportedly bans staff in China from romancing locals

The ban not only applies to American government personnel in China, but also their family members, and U.S. contractors with security clearances, according to a report by the Associated Press. The ban applies to any romantic or sexual relationships with Chinese nationals, according to the AP report, which cited four men with direct knowledge of the matter. The non-fraternization policy is meant to block Chinese intelligence efforts.

When was the ban put in place? The ban was initiated during the last days of President Joe Biden’s administration but only recently came to light, according to the Associated Press. Nicholas Burns, Biden’s U.S. ambassador to China, ordered the ban days before he resigned and President Donald Trump took office. Previously, the United States maintained a more limited policy, prohibiting relationships only with those Chinese citizens who served as guards or support staff at the U.S. Embassy and consulates in China. The new policy is the first of its kind since the Cold War, according to the Associated Press.

What about couples already in relationships? U.S. personnel in pre-existing relationships are permitted to apply for exemptions, according to the report. If the exemption is denied, they must end the relationship or resign from their position. The new policy does not apply to U.S. personnel stationed outside China.

Dig deeper: Read Lauren Canterberry’s report on China’s ongoing ban on international adoptions.