The unexpected developments at the Paris meeting reached Franz's hands, and Metternich explained his own views, while the high-ranking officials of the Vienna Government also offered their suggestions.
In general, it meant seizing the opportunity when the situation was favorable. According to Austria's original plans, they intended to annex the South Germany Region. Now, although they could not keep Baden, they had gained Saxony.
In terms of territorial area, both were more or less equal, but clearly the Saxon region was of greater importance to Austria. Setting aside industry, it had a population several hundred thousand more than the Baden Duchy did.
The plan to divide Germany into three parts was part of Austria's unification plans and was first proposed by Metternich, with preparations beginning several years prior.
