Binance co-founder Changpeng ‘CZ’ Zhao has been appointed as a strategic adviser to the newly formed Pakistan Crypto Council, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to become a global leader in blockchain innovation. The announcement came following a meeting in Islamabad chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, where senior officials from Pakistan’s financial and regulatory agencies gathered to discuss the future of digital finance in the country.
Aurangzeb emphasized the importance of embracing innovation and building a future-ready digital economy, stating that Zhao’s appointment signifies Pakistan’s commitment to fostering a secure and inclusive crypto ecosystem. As a strategic adviser, Zhao will provide guidance on regulatory frameworks, infrastructure development, education, and digital asset adoption, working closely with government agencies and the private sector to drive growth in the sector.
The council’s chief executive, Bilal Bin Saqib, highlighted the significance of Zhao’s involvement in positioning Pakistan as a forward-looking player in the web3 economy. Saqib expressed confidence that Zhao’s expertise and experience will serve as a catalyst for long-term digital growth in the country.
During his visit, Zhao met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, where he underscored Pakistan’s demographic advantage and untapped digital potential. With a population of over 240 million, a significant portion of whom are under the age of 30, Pakistan presents a ripe opportunity for blockchain innovation and digital transformation.
The Pakistan Crypto Council, established under the Finance Division in March, comprises top officials from key regulatory and legal institutions and is tasked with advancing digital asset policies and promoting responsible blockchain innovation. With Pakistan ranking among the top 10 countries in global crypto adoption and annual transaction volumes exceeding $20 billion, officials see immense opportunities to integrate blockchain technology into cross-border financial systems, particularly in the remittance sector.
Saqib, who has represented Pakistan at prominent blockchain forums worldwide, was appointed as the finance minister’s lead crypto adviser last month. Zhao’s involvement in the council adds international credibility to Pakistan’s mission and aligns the country with jurisdictions like Singapore and the UAE that are positioning themselves as global hubs for digital finance.
In conclusion, Zhao’s appointment as a strategic adviser to the Pakistan Crypto Council signals a significant step forward in the country’s journey towards becoming a prominent player in the global blockchain ecosystem. With a focus on innovation, regulatory clarity, and responsible growth, Pakistan is poised to harness the potential of blockchain technology and digital assets to drive economic development and financial inclusion.