Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has appointed Bilal Bin Saqib, the Chief Executive Officer of the Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC), as his special assistant on blockchain and cryptocurrency, granting him the status of a minister of state. On February 25, the finance ministry announced it was considering the creation of a “National Crypto Council” to embrace emerging digital currencies in line with global trends, subsequently appointing Saqib as CEO of the PCC. According to a press release issued today, Saqib’s responsibilities will include developing a comprehensive, FATF-compliant regulatory framework for digital assets, initiating Bitcoin mining projects, and overseeing the integration of blockchain technology in governance, finance, and land record management. Furthermore, he will facilitate the “licensing and supervision of virtual asset service providers (VASPs)” and advocate for “investor protection and the growth of the Web3 ecosystem” within Pakistan. Forbes notes that Saqib, who is listed among their ‘30 under 30, ’ co-founded Tayaba, described by the publication as “a social enterprise aiming to address Pakistan’s water crisis. ” The statement also highlighted that Saqib was awarded an MBE in 2023 for his contributions to the UK’s National Health Service. An MBE, or “Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, ” is conferred in recognition of outstanding achievements or service to the community that have had a significant, lasting impact. The announcement emphasized that this appointment demonstrates Pakistan’s “commitment to aligning with global trends. ” “Just as the United States incorporated leaders like David Sacks—appointed by Donald Trump as the White House AI and Crypto Czar—into its digital policy framework, Pakistan is adopting a forward-thinking strategy by empowering a young leader to guide its national approach to emerging technologies, ” the statement read. The press release further described the nation as being at a “critical digital crossroads, ” consistently ranking among the top 10 globally for crypto adoption, according to the 2023 Chainalysis Global Crypto Adoption Index. It noted that Pakistan currently has 40 million crypto users and an annual crypto trading volume greater than $300 billion. Additionally, the country produces approximately 40, 000 IT graduates annually and possesses the fourth-largest freelancer market worldwide. Saqib stated, “Pakistan’s unique demographic and digital landscape offers an unprecedented opportunity to leapfrog into the future of technology—where blockchain and crypto will drive economic growth, innovation, and global competitiveness. ”