Al-Qaida is weaker and the U.S. has become stronger and safer since 9/11, says Defense Secretary Leon Panetta.

Panetta spoke after touring the National September 11 Memorial and Museum, according to the Air Force.

Panetta says the attacks a decade ago have in some ways strengthened the United States at home and abroad. He credits cooperation among intelligence organizations, the Homeland Security Department and other agencies with that improvement.

Panetta says al-Qaida has taken serious hits to its ability to operate but that the terrorist organization still poses a threat, especially in nations like Yemen and Somalia.

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