Transformation of the rhetoric of Soviet-Japanese and Russian-Japanese declarations from 1956 to 2003

This paper analyzes the rhetoric of Soviet-Japanese and Russian-Japanese documents from the mid-20th century to the early 21st century. The object of study is the declarations and joint statements of Russia and Japan from 1956 to 2003. The subject is the evolution of the language in Russian-Japanese declarations. The aim is to identify and explain the transformation of rhetoric during the Soviet period, as well as in the 1990s and early 2000s. The results of the analysis may be useful for linguists, political scientists, practicing diplomats, as well as students, educators, and anyone interested in the topic of the development of Russian-Japanese relations in the Soviet and post-Soviet periods. Understanding the main patterns of linguistic change may prove beneficial in the foreseeable future when attempting to re-establish a dialogue between Moscow and Tokyo based on the practices of previous eras. The author employs both quantitative and qualitative methods to assess the gradual shift in the language of joint statements and declarations across different periods. 6 documents are evaluated through the lens of 35 marker words. As a result of studying Soviet-Japanese and Russian-Japanese documents from 1956, 1973, 1993, 1998, 2001, and 2003, it becomes apparent that: 1) the language of documents from the Soviet period is drier, stricter, and more concise; 2) in the first post-Soviet decade, the vocabulary is more optimistic and idealistic; 3) the early years of President Vladimir Putin's administration represent a middle ground between the Soviet and "Yeltsin" eras. The Soviet period is characterized by a focus on security, the Yeltsin era emphasizes humanism, freedom, and democracy, while the Putin era highlights mutually beneficial partnership and the satisfaction of common interests. Depending on the international context, the Soviet/Russian and Japanese delegations focused on different themes and priorities.