WASHINGTON, D.C. (BNO NEWS) – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced Wednesday that the United States and Finland signed a Preventing and Combating Crime (PCC) Agreement.

The agreement allows a boosted exchange of biometric and biographic data to strengthen counterterrorism and law enforcement efforts in both the United States and Finland while protecting individual privacy. Investigators from both countries will be able to better identify known terrorists and criminals during investigations and other law enforcement activities.

“Close collaboration with our international partners is critical to ensuring the safety and security of the American people,” said DHS Deputy Secretary Lute. “This agreement between the United States and Finland strengthens our mutual efforts to combat terrorism, share vital law enforcement information, and facilitate lawful travel and trade between our nations.”

The United States has strengthened ties with 13 international partners by signing similar agreements to prevent and combat crime with Portugal, Spain, Germany, Italy and nine recent entrants to the Visa Waiver Program.