ABU DHABI, Jan 31(The National) The UAE has strongly denied media reports that linked the UAE to a spy ring allegedly uncovered in Oman.

A statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, published last night by WAM, the state news agency, said that the country was “shocked and surprised” at the reports that “contradict the values and norms of the UAE dealings with the sisterly and friendly countries”.

An Omani official was quoted yesterday by the news agency AFP as saying that security forces had uncovered a spy ring belonging to the UAE that it said was targeting the mechanisms of the government and military.

An official told the agency the ring was focused on the issue of the succession of Sultan Qaboos, in the absence of an heir to the throne.

The Sultan has no children and according to Omani law his successor would be decided by the ruling family or appointed by the Council of Oman.

In response, the statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said “the UAE categorically denies any link with the alleged network, and was surprised to get its name immersed in such reports”.

The country was fully prepared to co-operate with any investigation launched to “uncover all relevant parties that attempt to mar the relations between the two countries,” it said..