The fortune teller who set up a stall became the first strategist of the Republic of China

Since assuming this crucial position in national economic development, Gao Qingqiu has felt a profound sense of responsibility. Every morning, he arrives at his office early, his desk piled high with economic data reports and research materials. He pores over these documents, his brow furrowed and then relaxed, his pen constantly scribbling down important information and his own thoughts and insights.

That day, an important economic symposium was held in a conference room in the government building. Gao Qingqiu arrived half an hour early, reviewed his prepared proposal, and mentally sorted out the key points for his speech. Officials and experts attending the symposium gradually took their seats, exchanging pleasantries. Their eyes revealed their concerns about the current economic situation and their anticipation for the symposium.

At the beginning of the meeting, the Grand Commander spoke solemnly, "Ladies and Gentlemen, while the national economy has shown some improvement, it still faces numerous challenges. Business development is hindered, and the people's living standards are improving slowly. We must find effective solutions. At today's seminar, I hope everyone will speak freely and discuss national affairs together."

As soon as the President finished speaking, a senior economic official spoke with concern: "President, the current tax policy is complicated and burdensome for businesses. Many companies are struggling to survive, which is extremely detrimental to economic development."

Everyone nodded, and a buzz of discussion erupted in the conference room. Gao Qingqiu raised his head slightly, scanning the room with a determined gaze. Then, clearing his throat, he spoke calmly, "I agree with Lord Li. In my opinion, we should optimize tax policies to reduce the burden on businesses, especially those in emerging industries and small and medium-sized enterprises, offering certain tax incentives to encourage innovation and development. For example, we could appropriately lower the corporate income tax rate, simplify the tax filing process, and reduce unnecessary taxes and fees, allowing businesses to invest more in technological research and development and expanded production."

An elderly expert, pushing his glasses, asked doubtfully, "Mr. Gao, your idea is certainly good, but with reduced tax revenue, how will the national fiscal revenue be guaranteed? Will this affect investment in infrastructure construction and public services?"

Gao Qingqiu confidently replied, "Mr. Zhang, in the short term, tax revenue may decrease, but in the long term, as businesses grow and become stronger, their tax-paying capacity will increase, which in turn will lead to increased fiscal revenue. Furthermore, we can ensure investment in infrastructure construction and public services by rationally adjusting the fiscal expenditure structure, cutting unnecessary expenses, and improving the efficiency of fund use."

Gao Qingqiu then turned the topic to financial reform: "The current financial system also has some problems. Capital circulation is sluggish, and small and medium-sized enterprises face difficulties in financing. We should establish a more comprehensive financial system, encourage banks to increase their support for the real economy, innovate financial products and services, and broaden corporate financing channels. At the same time, we should strengthen financial supervision, prevent financial risks, and ensure the stable operation of the financial market."

An official, a former banker, questioned: "Mr. Gao, banks also have their own risk considerations. The credit profiles of small and medium-sized enterprises vary widely, and lending to them carries a high risk. How can we ensure that banks can confidently provide them with financial support?"

Gao Qingqiu smiled and said, "This requires us to establish a comprehensive credit assessment system. The government can provide guidance and work with banks and businesses to build an information sharing platform to conduct comprehensive and objective assessments of a company's credit status. At the same time, the government can set up some risk compensation funds to compensate banks for some of their risky loans, alleviating their worries."

As the discussion intensified, Gao Qingqiu reiterated the importance of increasing investment in infrastructure construction: "Infrastructure such as transportation and communications is the artery of economic development. We must increase investment in this area to improve regional connectivity and promote coordinated regional economic development. For example, building railways and highways in remote areas will not only drive local resource development but also promote the flow of people and trade, creating new impetus for economic growth."

A local official said with embarrassment, "Mr. Gao, these infrastructure projects require a lot of money, and the local finances are under great pressure. How can we solve the funding problem?"

Gao Qingqiu thought for a moment and replied, "On the one hand, we can strive for international loans and investment to make up for the shortage of domestic funds. On the other hand, we can encourage private capital to participate in infrastructure construction. Through models such as PPP, enterprises and governments can jointly invest and benefit."

After a heated discussion, Gao Qingqiu's series of economic reform proposals gradually gained majority approval. After carefully listening to everyone's speeches, the Grand Commander said with satisfaction, "Mr. Gao's suggestions are insightful and highly feasible. I have decided that the relevant departments should take the lead in formulating specific implementation plans as soon as possible to ensure the implementation of these reform measures."

In the days that followed, Gao Qingqiu tirelessly worked across various departments, coordinating resources and promoting the implementation of the reform plan. He personally participated in the detailed formulation of tax policy adjustments, repeatedly consulting with tax officials to ensure that each preferential policy precisely benefited businesses. Regarding financial reform, he engaged in in-depth communication with bankers, promoting the development of a credit rating system and the establishment of a risk compensation fund. Regarding infrastructure investment, he actively negotiated cooperation with domestic and foreign investors to secure additional funding.