Sudan's Animal Resources Ministry on Sunday denied reports that Saudi Arabian authorities have suspended imports of sheep from Sudan.

In a statement, the Sudanese ministry reiterated its commitment to the animal health procedures in accordance with the international standard in terms of vaccination and quarantine.

Sudan also sticks to the conditions agreed on with the exporters, said the ministry.

It denied some media reports over the Saudi ban on the imports of Sudan's sheep during the past two days and that the transporting ships had returned with the Sudanese sheep.

It said "the ministry has not received any letter from the Saudi authorities indicating the suspension of imports or making any change."

"No ship has been returned from Saudi Arabia with its shipment of livestock and the Saudi authorities have not issued any decision on the suspension of Sudanese camels, cow or sheep imports," added the statement.

The ministry said that such lies aimed at undermining the Sudanese economy, of which the animal resources constitute a major pillar.

Earlier, some media reports said Saudi Arabia informed the Sudanese authorities of the suspension of receiving Sudanese sheep imports over suspected foot and mouth disease which is currently spreading in parts of Africa.