The US government has forbidden its diplomats in China, as well as their family members and contractors with safety -controlled romantic or sexual relationships with Chinese citizens. Only an exception is made for those who already had a relationship with a Chinese citizen before the prohibition was imposed.
According to the AP -press office, the new directive was published in January by the then American ambassador in China, Nicholas Burns, shortly before he left. Although there have already been strict rules for certain American authorities, a general prohibition (“non-fraternization policy”) is not publicly known for all government employees since the Cold War.
Only a few exceptions after
A rather less far -reaching prohibition was already met in the summer: at that time the American staff was forbidden to enter into intimate relationships with Chinese citizens who worked as security forces or support staff in American representatives. Burns extended this regulation in January to all Chinese citizens in China.
There are only exceptions for our staff who already had a relationship with a Chinese person before the new guideline was withdrawn. These must apply for approval – If it is rejected, the only thing left is the choice between the separation or task of the post. Violations of the Regulation lead to immediate removal from China.
Provide “honeypot” tactics
According to AP, the ban was discussed for the first time in the summer after congresses had expressed concern that existing limitations did not go far enough. Official authorities have not commented on the motives of the measure.
Diplomatic circles have long been warned that foreign intelligence services use so -driven “honeypots” – attractive men or women who specifically seduce diplomats to get information. China in particular should use this method intensively.
Used human Lokvogels?
Peter Mattis, a former CIA analyst, said AP that China is increasingly following access to American diplomats: “The Chinese secret service is ready to use every human connection of a goal object to collect information.” In particular, it is problematic that not -involved Chinese citizens can also be put under pressure to get sensitive data.
The US government is covered on this subject. Neither the Ministry of Foreign Affairs nor the National Security Council wanted to comment on the Regulation. Nicholas Burns also did not respond to a request from AP.
Deep distrust between Beijing and Washington
In a tight statement, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs pointed out that the American side was responsible for this decision. At the same time, insiders report that China has been enforcing similar limitations on his diplomatic staff for years. Chinese officials, military and police are usually not allowed to have a foreign partner and require special permits for travel abroad.
The new ban shows how deep distrust between Washington and Beijing is now. In the midst of geopolitical tensions, the measure could further burden the relationships.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
