US prohibits its officials in China from dating Chinese citizens

The US government has banned its personnel in China, including diplomats, security-cleared contractors, and their families, from engaging in any romantic or sexual relationships with Chinese citizens.
The Associated Press (AP), citing sources familiar with the matter, reported that the policy was put into effect by former US ambassador Nicholas Burns in January. US personnel stationed in China were verbally and electronically informed of the new rule.
Those with pre-existing relationships can request an exemption, but if denied, they must either end the relationship or leave their position. Any violations result in immediate expulsion from China.
Previously, only specific agencies had restrictions on relationships with foreign nationals, but this blanket ban is unprecedented in recent times. A less restrictive version was introduced last summer, targeting relationships between American personnel and Chinese staff working at the US Embassy and consulates. However, Burns expanded it to apply to all Chinese citizens in China just days before leaving office.
The policy affects US embassies and consulates in Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenyang, Wuhan, and Hong Kong. However, it does not apply to US personnel outside China.
This decision is reminiscent of Cold War-era policies when American diplomats in China and the Soviet bloc were restricted from forming personal ties with locals due to espionage concerns. Experts say China’s intelligence agencies have long used “honeypots”—attractive agents used to lure foreign officials— to extract information. US personnel are regularly warned about these tactics before being deployed to China.