Title:Pakistan Embraces Blockchain Innovation: Government Appoints Special Assistant on Crypto, Launches Mining Initiative

Pakistan Embraces Blockchain Innovation: Government Appoints Special Assistant on Crypto, Launches Mining Initiative

In a major step toward becoming a crypto-friendly economy, Pakistan has appointed a Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Blockchain and Cryptocurrency, aligning its strategy with global efforts to integrate digital assets into national economic planning.

This pivotal move signals Islamabad’s intention to join the ranks of forward-thinking nations harnessing the transformative power of blockchain technology, cryptocurrency innovation, and Bitcoin mining to bolster their economies.

Bilal Bin Saqib Appointed as Special Assistant on Cryptocurrency

Bilal Bin Saqib, a distinguished entrepreneur and humanitarian, has been named the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister of Pakistan on Blockchain and Cryptocurrency. His appointment is seen as a game-changing development in Pakistan’s digital asset policy.

Bin Saqib brings a wealth of experience to the role. A graduate of the London School of Economics (LSE), he was recognized in Forbes 30 Under 30 and awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) by King Charles III for his contributions to social impact and innovation.

In addition to his new role, he also serves as Chief Advisor to the Finance Minister and is the CEO of the Pakistan Crypto Council, a newly-formed body leading the charge in regulating and promoting digital finance within the country.

Pakistan Unveils Ambitious Bitcoin Mining Strategy

In a bid to capitalize on its energy resources, Pakistan has announced a bold plan to allocate 2,000 megawatts of surplus electricity for Bitcoin mining operations. This initiative aims to transform underutilized energy capacity into a revenue-generating sector focused on blockchain technology and AI-powered data centers.

The initiative, which is being spearheaded by the Pakistan Crypto Council, is designed to create high-tech employment opportunities, attract foreign direct investment, and position the country as a regional leader in crypto mining and digital finance innovation.

Crypto-Focused Leadership Amid Economic Challenges

The announcement comes at a critical time for Pakistan. The country has experienced a sharp downturn in foreign direct investment, which declined by 45% in February 2025 compared to the same month the previous year, according to Pakistan Today.

Amid these economic challenges, the government has been proactively seeking to diversify revenue sources and attract global capital through emerging financial technologies, including blockchain and digital currencies.

To bolster its global crypto strategy, Pakistan hired a U.S.-based lobbyist earlier this year to facilitate meetings in Washington. During a diplomatic visit, the Interior Minister of Pakistan reportedly urged American policymakers to expand investment in the country.

Pakistan Strengthens Ties With U.S.-Linked Crypto Projects

As part of this broader digital strategy, Pakistan has forged new partnerships with prominent U.S.-linked crypto ventures, including World Liberty Financial (WLF) — a blockchain project with political ties to former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Bilal Bin Saqib was appointed as an advisor to World Liberty Financial in April, following a high-profile visit to Pakistan by WLF co-founder Zach Witkoff. During the visit, Witkoff and his team signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Pakistan’s Ministry of IT and Telecom. The agreement outlines a potential framework for integrating WLF’s stablecoin into the country’s financial system for trade and remittances.

This development highlights Pakistan’s growing openness to digital currency solutions that could reduce dependency on traditional banking infrastructure and lower transaction costs for cross-border payments.

Former Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao Joins Pakistan Crypto Council

Adding to the momentum, former Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao (CZ) joined the Pakistan Crypto Council as an advisor in April. Zhao had recently completed a four-month sentence in the United States for violating anti-money laundering (AML) regulations but remains one of the most influential figures in the global crypto scene.

Though controversial, Zhao’s involvement underscores the council’s ambition to become a serious player in the international blockchain ecosystem. According to the Wall Street Journal, Zhao has also been linked to facilitating global outreach for World Liberty Financial, although he has publicly denied these claims, dismissing the report as “another hit piece.”

Pakistan’s Strategic Pivot Toward Digital Finance

With a dynamic team and bold plans, Pakistan is rapidly transitioning from a passive observer to an active participant in the global crypto economy. The country’s leadership sees blockchain and digital assets not just as speculative tools but as foundational technologies for the next generation of economic development.

By embracing surplus energy allocation for Bitcoin mining, inviting crypto talent, and collaborating with international blockchain firms, Pakistan is laying the groundwork for a robust digital financial ecosystem.

Challenges Ahead for Pakistan’s Crypto Agenda

Despite its ambitious roadmap, Pakistan's entry into the blockchain space is not without hurdles. Regulatory clarity, cybersecurity concerns, and financial oversight mechanisms will be crucial for ensuring that crypto adoption doesn’t open doors to illegal activities or undermine monetary stability.

Moreover, the country's outreach to politically-linked crypto projects such as World Liberty Financial may draw scrutiny from both domestic and international observers. Ensuring transparent governance, maintaining AML compliance, and fostering inclusive fintech growth will be critical to long-term success.

Conclusion: A New Era for Crypto in South Asia?

Pakistan’s appointment of a special assistant on blockchain and crypto affairs, coupled with the launch of a national mining strategy and international partnerships, marks a significant shift in South Asia’s stance on digital finance.

With global advisors like Bilal Bin Saqib and Changpeng Zhao, and strategic collaborations such as the one with World Liberty Financial, the country appears poised to become a hub for crypto innovation and blockchain infrastructure in the region.

If successfully implemented, Pakistan’s digital finance roadmap could transform its economy, attract billions in foreign capital, and offer a replicable model for other developing nations looking to leap into the future of money.