In a significant move signaling deepening international engagement in the digital asset space, Pakistan’s Minister of State for Crypto and Blockchain, Bilal Bin Saqib, met with Robert “Bo” Hines, Executive Director of US President Donald Trump’s Council on Digital Assets, during a visit to the White House. The dialogue centred around Pakistan’s ambitious crypto initiatives, including the launch of a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, cross-border collaboration, and unlocking national infrastructure for blockchain-driven economic development.
This high-profile meeting, held at the White House, marks a key step in Pakistan’s strategy to position itself as a global player in the evolving digital economy. It also highlights the Trump administration’s growing focus on digital assets, with Hines working closely with Council Chair David Sacks to shape US policy in this domain.
Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and National Infrastructure Plans
Pakistan’s newly unveiled Strategic Bitcoin Reserve formed the cornerstone of the discussions. According to Minister Saqib, the reserve is part of a broader mission to “position Pakistan as a global leader in digital assets.” Saqib also outlined plans to repurpose 2,000 megawatts of surplus national energy toward Bitcoin mining operations and AI data zones. These zones aim to transform underutilised electricity into digital productivity, creating tech-based jobs and fostering a modern economic framework.
The crypto minister emphasised that the country’s roadmap includes both public and private sector engagement. By integrating blockchain into infrastructure, Pakistan aims to boost GDP growth, digital literacy, and cross-border remittance efficiency.
Formation of the PDAA
Parallel to its technological ambitions, Pakistan is aggressively moving towards creating a regulatory structure to support its digital finance ecosystem. On May 21, Pakistan’s Ministry of Finance endorsed the formation of the Pakistan Digital Assets Authority (PDAA), a dedicated body that will oversee and license crypto exchanges, wallets, custodians, token platforms, stablecoins, and decentralised finance (DeFi) applications.
During his US visit, Saqib also engaged with members of the White House Counsel’s Office to discuss legal governance models for blockchain and decentralised technologies. These consultations are aimed at aligning Pakistan’s crypto framework with global regulatory norms and fostering investor confidence in the country’s digital asset initiatives.
IMF Raises Red Flags Over Energy Allocation
While Pakistan’s crypto ambitions have drawn attention from the US and international blockchain communities, not all feedback has been positive. On May 31, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) raised concerns over the country’s plan to allocate 2,000 megawatts of electricity for Bitcoin mining and AI data centres. The IMF questioned the legality and sustainability of such allocations, especially as Pakistan continues to grapple with chronic energy shortages and fiscal imbalances.
The IMF has requested urgent clarification from Pakistan’s Finance Ministry regarding how these digital initiatives align with ongoing economic reforms and energy priorities under its extended financial support programme. Analysts suggest that Pakistan will need to balance its digital asset ambitions with real-world economic constraints to maintain international credibility and financial aid support.
A Defining Moment for Pakistan’s Digital Future
Pakistan’s outreach to the Trump administration’s crypto leadership reflects its intent to not just participate in, but shape the future of global digital finance. From announcing a Bitcoin reserve to dedicating national infrastructure and crafting regulatory frameworks, the country is staking a bold claim on the crypto frontier.
However, its path forward will be shaped not only by internal policy innovation but also by the response of global financial institutions and energy stakeholders. As Pakistan walks the fine line between digital aspiration and fiscal reality, the world will be watching closely to see whether it can truly emerge as a crypto-forward nation or if the challenges ahead will temper its ambitions.
