Chinese officers and soldiers waves to say goodbye to Russian fleet during a China-Russia naval joint drill at sea off south China's Guangdong province, Sept 19, 2016. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

The People's Liberation Army will send troops to Russia to participate in the Vostok (East)-2022 strategic exercise in accordance with the annual cooperation plan between the Chinese and Russian militaries, China's Defense Ministry announced on Wednesday.

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China's Defense Ministry said the PLA's attendance of the exercise aims to deepen practical and friendly cooperation with the militaries of participating countries

The ministry said in a statement the PLA's attendance of the exercise, which is irrelevant to current international and regional situation, aims to deepen practical and friendly cooperation with the militaries of participating countries, enhance strategic coordination and strengthen their ability to cope with various security threats.

Armies from India, Belarus, Tajikistan, Mongolia and other countries will also participate in the drills, according to the ministry.

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