STRATEGIC DISCOURSES: A CONTENT ANALYSIS OF XI JINPING’S AND VLADIMIR PUTIN’S SPEECHES ON CENTRAL ASIA

Abstract

The foreign policy strategies and rhetoric of global powers, particularly neighboring China and Russia, significantly influence the geopolitical landscape of Central Asia. Understanding the rapidly evolving nature of regional dynamics requires an analysis of thematic priorities in the speeches of their leaders. This study aims to identify and compare key themes and rhetorical strategies in the speeches of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding their policies towards Central Asia. By analyzing their public addresses at recent international forums, the authors seek to discern their strategic priorities and approaches towards the region. Using quantitative content analysis of three key speeches by each leader over the past two years, speeches were analyzed using the R programming language to determine the most frequently mentioned words and themes. The analysis focused on various categories such as Prestige/Leadership, Security Issues, Global Threats, Terms and Issues of Cooperation, the role of International Organizations, rhetoric on Foreign Policy issues, and Relations with Friends and Rivals. The analysis of the speeches of the two presidents revealed that both leaders prioritize cooperation, economic development, and security. Xi Jinping's rhetoric is more inclusive and future-oriented, whereas Putin's speeches emphasize immediate regional stability and strategic partnerships. The results of the quantitative content analysis demonstrate that while Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin share common themes in their speeches, their approaches reflect their respective strategic priorities and geopolitical contexts. Xi Jinping's emphasis on global cooperation contrasts with Putin's focus on regional security and economic integration.