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The authors analyze the question of whether a consensus on missile defense can be attained in a colloquium devoted to the subject. Lately, the tenor of the transatlantic debate suggests the possibility of consensus. The authors give four reasons for progressive changes in European views: (1) Opposition was gradually replaced by an interest to explore the issues more thoroughly. (2) The Bush team is listening to European concerns & suggestions. (3) Bush & Putin agreed in July to consult on the interrelated subjects of offensive & defensive systems. (4) As the Bush administration is committed to deployment, European leaders concluded that to influence the nature of deployment is better than nothing. A policy based on the following four principles might just earn allied consensus: (A) Defenses must be embedded in a wide nonproliferation strategy. (B) The objective should be to defend the US, its allies, & friends against small missile threats from small states. (C) Only proven missile defenses should be deployed. (D) A cooperative strategy toward Russia should include new formal limitations of offensive & defensive systems. Missile defense can enhance transatlantic security & strengthen common bonds. Adapted from the source document.