But Ethiopia's mines and energy minister was quoted this week as saying no petroleum reserves had been found in the country despite years of search.

VOA: standard.2009.11.16

Despite some of the most challenging economic conditions in decades, American consumer confidence jumped unexpectedly this month, a sign that widespread pessimism might be dissipating.

VOA: standard.2009.08.25

"However,despite this widespread support for, and awareness of the rights of the child, there persist severe violations, including violence, sexual abuse and exploitation, child trafficking and forced labor,"

VOA: standard.2009.10.08