Austria-Hungary had to be pressured by German chancellor Otto von Bismarck into accepting the principles of consultation and mutual agreement with Italy on any territorial changes initiated in the Balkans or on the coasts and islands of the Adriatic and Aegean seas. When the treaty was renewed in February 1887, Italy gained an empty promise of German support of Italian colonial ambitions in North Africa in return for Italy's continued friendship. The existence and membership of the treaty were well known, but its exact provisions were kept secret until 1919. In the event of a war between Austria-Hungary and Russia, Italy promised to remain neutral. In turn, Italy would assist Germany if attacked by France. The treaty provided that Germany and Austria-Hungary were to assist Italy if it was attacked by France without provocation. Each member promised mutual support in the event of an attack by any other great power. Italy was looking for support against France shortly after it lost North African ambitions to the French. Germany and Austria-Hungary had been closely allied since 1879. It was formed on and renewed periodically until it expired in 1915 during World War I. The Triple Alliance was a military alliance between Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy.
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