NEW DELHI, Aug. 30 (Xinhua) -- India late on Saturday announced that its defence forces won't participate in this year's multilateral military exercises "Kavkaz-2020" to be hosted by Russia from Sept. 15 to 27.

The decision not to participate in the exercises has been taken in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic, tweeted the principal spokesperson of the India's Ministry of Defence.

"At Russia's invitation India has been participating in many international events. However, in view of pandemic and consequent difficulties in exercise, including arrangements of logistics, India has decided not to send contingent this year to Kavkaz-2020. The same has been informed to the Russian side," the spokesperson said.