The article examines the Treaty of Quirinal signed by Italy and France on November 26, 2021, exploring its significance for their bilateral relations and European integration. The authors analyze the arguments of both sides in favor of the Treaty, and also argue that the document contributes to the formation of the triangle of France, Germany and Italy. It changes the balance of relations within the European Union in the context of the current multiple geopolitical and economic challenges. The study shows the significance of the document for the development of the EU’s internal discussion on “strategic autonomy”, as well as the prospects for the formation of a new “core” of the Union, which has an ambition to play the role of an “integration engine” in the field of double transition, sustainability and common defense policy. The Treaty does not challenge the institutional dimension of the Union; nevertheless it is vulnerable to criticism as a manifestation of failure of multilateralism. Also the document is perceived as a means to avoid aggressive competition and disunity within the EU’s policy towards its southern neighbors.