Secretary Signs Agreement with Portugal

Secretary Napolitano was just in Lisbon to sign an agreement with the Portuguese government that will allow the U.S. and Portugal to share biometric and biographic data to prevent and combat crime and terrorism. Ok, what in the world does that mean? Here are some basics.

If Portugal is holding a person suspected of a crime, they can share that suspect's fingerprints with the U.S., allowing the U.S. to run a comparison against all known or wanted persons for any criminal or terrorist act. This, along with other provisions in the agreement, provides our two nations greater abilities to cooperate on international law enforcement and counterterrorism efforts. It also includes extensive provisions designed to protect privacy, so that no one can just "browse" for information.

The Secretary wrapped up the signing ceremony and is now on her way to Madrid.