high-quality cash equivalent investments. However, in the event that we required the use of cash held by our international subsidiaries for an extended period of time in the United States, we would be required to treat the cash as having been repatriated and we would incur significant tax liabilities. Refer to the heading "Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates—Income Taxes," above. 

In addition to the Company's cash balances and commercial paper program, we also maintain $2.6 billion of committed, currently unused credit facilities from our network of relationship banks. These backup lines of credit expire at various times from 2009 through 2013. We have evaluated the financial stability of each bank and believe we can access the funds, if needed. Refer to Note 7 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 

Based on all of these factors, the Company believes its current liquidity position is strong, and we will continue to meet all of our financial commitments for the foreseeable future. 

Cash Flows from Operating Activities 

Net cash provided by operating activities for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 was approximately $7,571 million, $7,150 million and $5,957 million, respectively. 

Cash flows from operating activities increased $421 million, or 6 percent, in 2008 compared to 2007. This increase was primarily attributable to increased cash collections from customers, driven by the 11 percent increase in net operating revenues. Refer to heading "Operations Review—Net Operating Revenues." 

The impact of increased cash collections from customers was partially offset by increased payments to suppliers and vendors, increased payments for selling, general and administrative expenses and an increase in tax payments. The increase in payments to suppliers and vendors was primarily attributable to higher sales volume and increased marketing and advertising costs to support our brands. The increase in tax payments included payments associated with the agreement between the U.S. government and a foreign government. Refer to the heading "Operations Review—Income Taxes" and Note 17 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 

Additionally, the Company made approximately $224 million in payments related to streamlining activities and the costs of productivity initiatives during 2008. Refer to Note 18 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 

On May 26, 2008, the Company and the other defendants reached an agreement with the plaintiffs in a class action lawsuit C( arpenters Health & Welfare Fund of Philadelphia & Vicinity v. The Coca-Cola Company, et al. ) to settle the lawsuit for approximately $138 million, without admitting any wrongdoing. The settlement amount was covered by insurance and, therefore, the settlement had no impact on our consolidated statement of income. The payments related to this settlement were made directly from the insurers to the plaintiffs during the third quarter and fourth quarter of 2008. As a result, the settlement had no impact on our consolidated statement of cash flows. 

Cash flows from operating activities increased $1,193 million, or 20 percent, in 2007 compared to 2006. This