Why was Hitler so worried about Mussolini's reaction to the Annexation of Austria in 1938? And did this action finally cement Germany's and Italy's relationship? Any thoughts would be thankfully received. Benito Mussolini of Italy, having received a hand-written letter on this topic shortly before, personally telephoned Hitler to let Hitler know that Austria was "immaterial" to Italy, suggesting Italy's approval for this annexation. The enthusiastic Hitler told a messenger to bring Mussolini the message "I will never forget him for this.... Never, never, never, no matter what happens!"
It looks like Il Duce played a double game. BBC NEWS | Europe | Il Duce 'sought Hitler ban' But Hitler was really worried about an Italian reconciliation with France and Britain….which never happened. The entirely official friendship and alliance between Germany and Italy was first sealed in the treaty, “Pact of Steel”, May 22, 1939 Pact of Steel - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
