China's top diplomat Wang Yi recently expressed his hope and belief that Germany would support China's "peaceful reunification" with Taiwan, according to a statement issued by the Chinese foreign ministry on Saturday. Wang made the remarks during a meeting with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, who was visiting China until Saturday. Wang also said that China once supported Germany's reunification and that Taiwan's "return to China" was an important part of the post-World War II international order  .

China's statement reflects its longstanding position that Taiwan is an inseparable part of its territory and that any attempt to seek formal independence would be met with force. China has also been increasing its military and diplomatic pressure on Taiwan, which is a self-governing island with a democratically elected government and a separate legal system. China has repeatedly warned other countries not to interfere in its internal affairs or establish official ties with Taiwan  .

Germany, as a major European power and a close ally of the United States, has a significant role to play in the Taiwan issue. Germany has maintained unofficial relations with Taiwan since 1972, when it switched diplomatic recognition to Beijing. Germany also supports the "one China" policy, which acknowledges China's sovereignty over Taiwan but does not explicitly endorse Beijing's claim. Germany has also been a major trade partner and source of investment for both China and Taiwan  .

However, Germany's stance on Taiwan is not without challenges and contradictions. On one hand, Germany has expressed concern over China's human rights record and its assertive behavior in the region, especially considering the crackdown on Hong Kong's autonomy and democracy. Germany has also called for dialogue and peaceful resolution of the cross-strait tensions and urged China to respect Taiwan's democratic will and interests  . On the other hand, Germany has sought to maintain a constructive and cooperative relationship with China, which is its largest trading partner and a key partner on global issues such as climate change and pandemic response. Germany has also avoided provoking China by refraining from sending warships or high-level officials to Taiwan or endorsing arms sales to the island  .

Therefore, China's statement that it hopes Germany supports peaceful Taiwan reunification puts Germany in a delicate and difficult position. While Germany may not want to antagonize China or undermine the status quo in the Taiwan Strait, it may also not want to endorse China's claim or abandon its values and principles on democracy and human rights. Moreover, Germany may face pressure from its allies, especially the United States, which has been more vocal and active in supporting Taiwan's security and international participation. How Germany responds to China's statement and how it balances its interests and values on the Taiwan issue will have significant implications for the future of cross-strait relations and regional stability  .