Hitler and Mussolini meet at Venice and reach agreement . Meeting at Venice , Hitler of Germany and Mussolini of Italy have reached an agreement . It prepares the way for Germany ' s return to the League and provides for Austria ' s independence . The meeting of the two statesmen has focused the attention of all the world and is one of the most historic events of modern politics . It is the first time that the dictators have met face to face . Fascist guards specially detailed to protect the two statesmen marching over a bridge in Venice . 16 June 1934