Determined to further enhance our relationship, we discussed ways of maximizing the work of the U.S.- Portugal Bilateral Commission, which facilitates cooperation in areas as diverse as defense and security, education, science and technology exchanges, economic revitalization, law enforcement, and development in the Azores.

WHITEHOUSE: The White House

In the meantime, the U.S. has to put in place a regional strategy that encompasses diplomatic, economic, intelligence, law-enforcement and military initiatives aimed at weakening the terrorists and enhancing living conditions for civilians.

WSJ: Somali Extremists Have al Qaeda Ties

"I've been dealing with immigration enforcement for 20 years and the plain fact of the matter is that the law that we're working under doesn't match the economic needs of the country today and the law enforcement needs of the country today, " Napolitano told CNN.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

It does mean we possess many tools -- diplomatic and political, and economic and financial, and intelligence and law enforcement and our moral suasion -- and using these tools over the past three years, I believe -- I know -- that we have saved countless lives.

WHITEHOUSE: President Obama Speaks on Preventing Mass Atrocities

Further economic growth in northern Somalia is dependant on law enforcement an unlikely prospect.

ECONOMIST: Somalia��s woes

At the same time, we have benefitted from laws that have strengthened our crime-fighting abilities, including the Communications Assistance for Law Enforcement Act, Anti-Terrorism laws, the Economic Espionage Act, and the Health Care Fraud Statute.

CNN: Text of Freeh's statement