Chinese citizens are being told not to travel to the United States through Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on “X” regarding the warning.
Reuters translated the notice, saying that 20 Chinese scholars were denied entry on their way to attend an academic conference. The statement also noted that the scholars all held valid visas and were subject to “unreasonable questioning” by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
KIRO 7 News has contacted the airport and Border Patrol about the allegations.
The Port of Seattle issued the following statement:
“The Port of Seattle, which owns and operates Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), reaffirms its commitment to being a welcoming gateway for people and commerce.
As a federally regulated public airport, the port has no control over operations or entry requirements for arriving international passengers. This process is completely controlled by Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
We expect all passengers arriving at SEA to be treated with dignity, respect and fairness in accordance with our Welcome Port Policy.“
The Border Patrol has not yet responded.
China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs advised citizens to “increase security awareness and avoid entering through this airport,” according to a Reuters translation.
The Department of Foreign Affairs is asking its citizens to respond calmly and rationally if U.S. law enforcement officers question them while traveling.
