Bilal bin Saqib appointed Chief Crypto Advisor

In a significant move reflecting Pakistan's commitment to technological advancement and financial innovation, the federal government has appointed Bilal Bin Saqib MBE as the Chief Adviser to the Finance Minister on the Pakistan Crypto Council. This appointment underscores the nation's dedication to integrating emerging technologies into its financial ecosystem while ensuring robust regulatory frameworks and economic growth.

Background and Significance

The establishment of the Pakistan Crypto Council marks a pivotal step in the country's efforts to adopt and regulate digital assets. On February 25, 2025, the Finance Ministry announced its consideration of forming a National Crypto Council to align with global trends in digital currencies. This initiative aims to oversee policy development, address regulatory challenges, and ensure that Pakistan's digital asset ecosystem evolves securely and sustainably.

Bilal Bin Saqib: A Visionary Leader

Bilal Bin Saqib brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role. Recognized in Forbes' '30 Under 30' list, he is a prominent figure in the Web3 sector, serving as an advisor and investor. His contributions to the blockchain space include representing Pakistan on international platforms such as NFT NYC, the World Economic Forum, ETH Barcelona, and Token 2049. His work spans tokenizing real-world assets, decentralized finance (DeFi), decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs), artificial intelligence (AI), and institutional blockchain applications.

Beyond his professional achievements, Bilal has been honored by British royalty and government officials. In 2023, he was awarded an MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) for his contributions to the UK's National Health Service. He also received the 1632nd Points of Light Award from the British Prime Minister, recognizing his efforts in social change. An alumnus of the London School of Economics (LSE) with a Master's in Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Bilal's academic background complements his practical experience in technological innovation.

Role and Responsibilities

As the Chief Adviser to the Finance Minister on the Pakistan Crypto Council, Bilal is tasked with guiding the integration of cryptocurrency and blockchain technologies into Pakistan's financial system. His responsibilities include developing a robust regulatory framework for digital assets, ensuring alignment with global best practices, and exploring the use of artificial intelligence to enhance government efficiency and drive public sector innovation.

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb expressed confidence in Bilal's appointment, stating that it reinforces Pakistan's commitment to embracing emerging technologies while ensuring a secure and transparent financial system. He anticipates that Bilal's leadership will foster innovation and sustainable growth in Pakistan's crypto sector.

Vision for Pakistan's Digital Future

Bilal envisions leveraging Pakistan's youthful and tech-savvy population to drive innovation in the digital space. With nearly 70% of the population under the age of 30, he believes that adopting a forward-thinking approach to crypto and blockchain can attract significant foreign investment, create jobs, and empower the youth to shape Pakistan's economic future. He acknowledges Pakistan's high ranking in global crypto adoption and aims to solidify the country's position on the global crypto map by implementing appropriate policies and frameworks.

The Pakistan Crypto Council: Objectives and Structure

The Pakistan Crypto Council is envisioned as a dedicated advisory body comprising government representatives, regulatory authorities, and industry experts. Its primary objectives include overseeing policy development, addressing regulatory challenges, and fostering international collaboration to establish standardized frameworks for digital economic engagement. In his role, Bilal will lead the council in crafting a balanced policy environment that promotes regulatory compliance, ensures consumer protection, and supports innovation.

Past Contributions and Innovations

Bilal's commitment to social innovation is evident through his founding of the Tayaba Organisation, a non-profit focused on improving water access in underserved communities. In 2021, Tayaba made history by becoming the first Pakistani NGO, and one of the first globally, to raise funds through an NFT (non-fungible token) fundraiser. This initiative not only raised Rs2 million but also introduced NFTs linked to real-world humanitarian goods, revolutionizing the concept of fundraising.

Future Outlook

Bilal's appointment is a critical achievement in Pakistan's efforts to become a regional leader in the cryptocurrency space. His expertise is expected to guide the nation in navigating the regulatory, economic, and security challenges posed by the emerging digital asset sector. By embracing technological advancements and implementing sound policy measures, Pakistan aims to foster economic growth, empower its youth, and establish itself as a leader in the global digital economy.

In conclusion, Bilal Bin Saqib's appointment as Chief Adviser to the Finance Minister on the Pakistan Crypto Council signifies a strategic move towards embracing digital transformation. His leadership is anticipated to play a pivotal role in shaping Pakistan's financial future, ensuring that the nation remains at the forefront of technological innovation while maintaining a secure and transparent financial system.