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 meeting focused on boosting cooperation between Pakistan and the United States in the digital assets space. Discussions covered a broad range of topics, including Bitcoin (BTC), potential partnerships and the future of decentralized finance, according to a report by 24NewsHD TV.
One key area of dialogue was Pakistan’s newly announced Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. “It is my mission to position Pakistan as a global leader in digital assets,” Saqib said after the meeting.
“From launching our Strategic Bitcoin Reserve to unlocking national infrastructure for crypto mining and AI data zones, Pakistan is building a real framework for digital asset adoption and economic modernization,” Saqib added.
Hines, appointed by Trump earlier this year, leads US policy on digital assets and works alongside Council Chair David Sacks. The Trump administration has signaled a strong interest in positioning the United States as a global leader in this space.
Related: Pakistan appoints special assistant to PM on blockchain and crypto
Saqib meets with White House counsel
Beyond the White House meeting, Saqib also met with officials from the White House Counsel’s Office to discuss legal frameworks surrounding blockchain governance.
Pakistan’s broader crypto strategy includes plans to allocate 2,000 megawatts of surplus power toward Bitcoin mining and AI data zones. The goal is to transform unused energy into digital productivity, create jobs and expand national infrastructure.
The country is also developing a regulatory framework for digital assets. On May 21, Pakistan’s Ministry of Finance endorsed the creation of a dedicated body to regulate blockchain-based financial infrastructure in the country.
The Pakistan Digital Assets Authority (PDAA) will serve as a regulatory body to oversee licensing and regulating exchanges, custodians, wallets, tokenized platforms, stablecoins and decentralized finance applications.
Related: Pakistan creates Digital Asset Authority to regulate crypto
IMF raises concerns over Pakistan’s Bitcoin mining plans
On May 31, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) raised concerns over Pakistan’s decision to allocate 2,000 megawatts of electricity for Bitcoin mining and AI data centers amid ongoing negotiations tied to the country’s extended financial program.
The financial agency raised red flags about the move, requesting urgent clarification from the Finance Ministry regarding the legality of crypto mining and the power allocations, particularly as the nation struggles with chronic energy shortages and fiscal pressures.
Magazine: US risks being ‘front run’ on Bitcoin reserve by other nations: Samson Mow
