The U.S. government has implemented a strict policy prohibiting American government personnel, family members, and contractors with security clearances from engaging in romantic or sexual relationships with Chinese citizens, per the Associated Press. This policy, put in place by the former U.S. Ambassador Nicholas Burns in January, is a significant departure from previous guidelines, which only restricted relationships with Chinese citizens working in specific roles, such as embassy guards.
Such a blanket “non-fraternisation” policy has been unheard of since the Cold-War, since it’s not uncommon for American diplomats in other countries to date locals or marry them. Until the new ban in January, US personnel in China were expected to inform their seniors about any intimate contact with Chinese citizens, but were not explicitly forbidden from sexual or romantic relationships.
The new policy is a response to concerns over potential security risks, particularly in light of China’s alleged use of “honeypots” to extract sensitive information from American diplomats. According to Peter Mattis, a former CIA analyst, Chinese state security agents have been known to seduce American diplomats, and even ordinary Chinese citizens who date American diplomats could be vulnerable to coercion.
The policy applies to U.S. personnel stationed in mainland China, including the embassy in Beijing and consulates in Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenyang, and Wuhan, as well as the American consulate in Hong Kong. However, it does not apply to U.S. personnel stationed outside China. Those with pre-existing relationships with Chinese citizens can apply for exemptions, but if denied, they must end the relationship or leave their position. If the policy is violated, the concerned personnel would be ordered to leave China immediately.
This policy marks a significant shift in the U.S. government’s approach to security in China, reflecting growing tensions between Washington and Beijing over trade, technology, and geopolitical competition. The Chinese foreign ministry has declined to comment on the policy, stating that it is “more appropriate to ask the U.S. about this question.”
In contrast, China has its own set of strict regulations governing the personal lives of its personnel overseas. Chinese civil servants with spouses who have acquired foreign citizenship are barred from promotions, and diplomats are restricted from spending extended periods in one country. Additionally, Chinese officials and staff are prohibited from engaging in romantic or sexual relationships with foreign citizens.