US government bans sexual relationships between its employees and Chinese citizens

The United States government has implemented stringent new regulations forbidding its personnel from engaging in romantic or sexual relationships with Chinese nationals. The directive not only affects government employees but also extends to contractors and family members holding security clearance. The cities specifically targeted by the policy include Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenyang, and Wuhan, in addition to the American consulate in Hong Kong.

READ ALSO: 10 strategic steps to reduce the impact of Trump’s harsh 10% tariff on Ghana

According to the Associated Press, the order was issued by the outgoing US Ambassador, Nicholas Burns, in January—just before his departure from Beijing and prior to the start of President Trump’s new term. While an earlier policy had already prohibited relationships between American staff and Chinese guards or support personnel within US diplomatic facilities, this updated measure significantly broadens the restriction. It is viewed as a notable shift in how the United States intends to conduct its diplomatic affairs in China, now applying the rule to all Chinese nationals, not solely those employed at US posts.

ALSO READ: Amazon makes last-minute bid for TikTok ahead of U.S. ban deadline

The expanded policy encompasses a wide range of personal associations, including “friends, acquaintances, and romantic partners,” as well as “Chinese family members connected to US staff or contractors with security clearance.”

According to Associated Press sources, there is only one exemption to the policy: individuals currently in established relationships with Chinese citizens may apply for a waiver. However, if their application is unsuccessful, they are faced with two stark choices: “end the relationship or resign from their position.”