Why did Bush Sr. allow the illegal annexation of the GDR?

[rupol2000]

It was illegal and not beneficial to the right: it went against the policy of containment of Germany and the growth of Pan-Germanism

 

[ESay]

Because GDR was under the Soviet 'protectorate'. When this ended the East Germans decided to join their wealthier neighbour.

About pan-Germanism. Setting up united West Germany after WWII was a mistake.

 

[rupol2000]

Because GDR was under the Soviet 'protectorate'.

This was ok. Firstly, it was originally conceived to contain Germany, secondly, at that time there was no longer the USSR of KGB, and thirdly, since 1985, the USSR was loyal to the United States.