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U.S. ambassador to China steps down amid tensions

The U.S. Ambassador to China is stepping down. U.S. Envoy Terry Branstad will retire from his position in early October.  

Branstad’s announcement comes after the Chinese government announced Friday that it is placing restrictions on senior U.S. diplomats. The U.S. imposed a similar restriction on Chinese diplomats earlier this month.  

The reason for Branstad’s retirement was not given. He has served as an ambassador to the People’s Republic of China since 2017. In a statement, he says he is proudest for his team’s work on the Phase One trade deal.  

Branstad says significant progress has been made with China and his office will continue to press for more. Branstad, a former Iowa governor, will return to Iowa after his retirement.