Piedmont is usually the early focus of French/Italian negotiations. It is likely that both sides will agree to DMZ Piedmont so they can concentrate on their respective spheres of influence (Italy to the east and France to the west).
If France enters this space in the early game, it means either a western triple [GEF] has formed or that France is stupid and will soon be crushed by E/G. If Italy enters Piedmont in the opening, it usually means that E/G have put him up to it and France will soon die.
Tim Miller