Pakistan Seeks Global Digital Finance Leadership with US Collaboration

Pakistan's Minister of State for Crypto & Blockchain, Bilal Bin Saqib, held a meeting with Robert ‘Bo’ Hines, Executive Director of the U.S. Council on Digital Assets, at the White House. The primary objective of this meeting was to foster closer collaboration on digital finance, with a particular focus on Bitcoin adoption and the future of decentralized systems. This dialogue marks a significant milestone for Pakistan in the realm of digital finance, as it seeks to establish itself as a leader in the digital economy.

Saqib, who was appointed as a special assistant on blockchain and cryptocurrency by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in May 2025, is tasked with creating a comprehensive framework for regulating digital assets in Pakistan that complies with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) standards. His role also involves supporting Bitcoin mining initiatives across the nation and integrating blockchain technology into various sectors, including governance, finances, and land records.

The high-level meeting took place shortly after Pakistan's announcement at the Bitcoin 2025 Conference in Las Vegas, where the country unveiled its Strategic Bitcoin Reserve (SBR), becoming the first Asian nation to incorporate Bitcoin into its national reserves. During the meeting, Saqib outlined his vision for Pakistan's future in the digital economy, emphasizing the country's ambition to become a prominent player in the Global South in the realm of digital assets. He also discussed the recent establishment of the SBR and the development of structures for cryptocurrency mining and AI-based data zones, which he believes are laying the foundation for digital growth and economic enhancement.

Both sides expressed a strong desire to foster bilateral cooperation, discussing strategies to support digital asset progress, establish common regulations, and adopt new technologies. They also agreed to support systems that enable youth to leverage blockchain technology to increase their participation in the economy. Additionally, Saqib held discussions with the White House Counsel’s Office to address the necessary laws for managing blockchain governance and ensuring international cooperation.

Pakistan's clear crypto strategy includes setting aside 2,000 megawatts of surplus energy for Bitcoin mining and establishing AI-powered data zones. This initiative aims to convert unused power into new digital jobs and increased production. Furthermore, in April 2025, World Liberty Financial (WLF), a company related to the Trump family, signed a Letter of Intent with the Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC). This partnership aims to promote the use of stablecoins, DeFi, and blockchain technologies in Pakistan, demonstrating growing international support for the country's technology strategies.

Saqib's keynote speech at the Bitcoin 2025 conference provided further clarity on Pakistan's future in digital finance, highlighting the country's major objectives and its commitment to responsible blockchain expansion. Overall, Pakistan is making significant strides to lead in digital finance, leveraging its partnerships with foreign entities to integrate blockchain and cryptocurrency into its economic system.