1.   And inventories of consuming nations are high.

2.   Because the U.S. is the largest energy consuming nation, traders focus on the figures as a leading indicator of global demand and supply.

3.   But, in a remarkable display of unity, the leaders also made clear that they sought a more equitable relationship with the more powerful consuming nations.

4.   Even though the Nigerian oil strike continues, other supplies have been found to fulfill the needs of America and other consuming nations.

5.   If worldwide inventories are not restocked, Verleger argued, consuming nations could find themselves under increasing pressure to turn to Iraq.

6.   Some OPEC members have threatened to restrict production -- and push prices higher -- if consuming nations impose consumption taxes.

7.   Still, analysts believe that just because the latest Middle East confrontation was shrugged off by the energy markets, the consuming nations should not become complacent.

8.   Also, Pakistan has become a large drug consuming nation in recent years.

9.   He also said consuming nations bear responsibility for fighting drugs.

10.   In his speech, Zedillo chided consuming nations for not doing more to fight the drug war.