Analysis of lexical features of coverage of Central Asia in official media of China and Russia

The article provides a comparative analysis of lexical features of coverage of Central Asia in official media of China and Russia. The study reveals key differences in the media strategies of the two countries: the Chinese discourse is characterized by a high degree of standardization of vocabulary with an emphasis on economic cooperation within the framework of the "One Belt - One Road" initiative, while the Russian approach demonstrates a more complex system of terms combining integration, military-political and humanitarian topics. The methodological basis includes discourse analysis and content analysis, which allow identifying stable lexical models and their ideological load. Particular attention is paid to the influence of state rhetoric on the formation of the media agenda. The results of the study are important for understanding the mechanisms of soft power and information policy of China and Russia in Central Asia.