Pakistan Appoints Special Assistant for Blockchain and Crypto to Prime Minister's Cabinet

A graduate of the London School of Economics (LSE), Bilal has been recognized in the Forbes 30 Under 30 list and was awarded an MBE by King Charles III for his outstanding social contributions.

In his new role, he will lead the national strategy for cryptocurrency and blockchain, including:

• Drafting legal frameworks aligned with FATF standards

• Organizing nationwide Bitcoin mining operations

• Applying blockchain technology in sectors such as land management and financial systems

Despite being granted a rank equivalent to a Minister of State, Bilal Bin Saqib will not receive a salary or any official benefits.

Pakistan Boosts Infrastructure and Digital Asset Regulation

This appointment is part of Pakistan’s broader effort to build a robust digital ecosystem. Recently, the government approved the creation of the Pakistan Digital Assets Authority (PDAA), which will comprehensively oversee crypto exchanges, e-wallets, stablecoins, DeFi applications, and related services.

Notably, the government also announced a dedicated allocation of 2,000 megawatts of electricity for Bitcoin mining operations. This move aims to power blockchain data centers and AI projects, with expectations of boosting technology sector revenue, job creation, and attracting foreign investment.

Big Names Emerge: Binance, World Liberty Financial, and More

In a noteworthy development, former Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao has officially joined the Pakistan Cryptocurrency Council (PCC) as an advisor, following a brief prison sentence in the U.S. for anti-money laundering violations. His involvement is seen as a credibility booster and a step toward expanding PCC’s international influence.

Additionally, Pakistan’s relationship with the cryptocurrency project World Liberty Financial (WLF) is strengthening. The organization has connections with individuals who previously supported former U.S. President Donald Trump.

In April, Bilal Bin Saqib became an advisor to WLF after co-founder Zach Witkoff visited Pakistan. This visit led to the signing of a cooperation agreement between the Pakistani government and WLF to pilot a stablecoin for trade and international remittances.

Skepticism and Expectations Ahead

Pakistan’s rapid expansion into the crypto space also brings concerns. One key motivation behind these crypto-friendly policies is the sharp decline in foreign investment—down by 45% in February alone.

Earlier this year, the Pakistani government hired a lobbying firm in the U.S. to arrange strategic meetings in Washington, D.C., aiming to attract support and capital from major investors. According to The Wall Street Journal, some Pakistani officials even made direct appeals for increased U.S. investment.

Interestingly, WSJ also reported that Changpeng Zhao had helped WLF expand internationally, although Zhao has publicly denied the claim, calling it "yet another attack" against him. Regardless, PCC continues to sign cooperation agreements with WLF to drive innovation and attract global crypto capital.

Pakistan: From Cautious to Crypto Pioneer?

With comprehensive moves spanning regulatory development, energy infrastructure investment, and partnerships with crypto industry leaders, Pakistan is signaling a bold transition into becoming Asia’s next digital asset hub.

If these initiatives are implemented effectively, the country may not only reduce its dependence on traditional investment models but also pave the way for sustainable growth built on blockchain and digital asset technologies.

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