Islamabad, May 26, 2025: In a bold move to embrace the future of finance, the Government of Pakistan has officially appointed Bilal Bin Saqib as the Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Blockchain and Crypto, granting him the status equivalent to a minister of state, according to a notification issued on May 26, 2025.
This strategic appointment under Rule 4(6) of the Rules of Business, 1973, highlights the government’s increasing focus on digital innovation, with blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies at the core of Pakistan’s evolving financial landscape. The Cabinet Division has been instructed to ensure swift implementation of the notification.
A rising name in tech and philanthropy, Bilal Bin Saqib, who is also featured in Forbes’ 30 Under 30, had earlier this year been named as the chief advisor to Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb for the upcoming Crypto Council.
That appointment marked a significant milestone in the state’s plan to establish a structured framework around digital assets.
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Notably, Saqib has taken on this prestigious responsibility without any salary, perks, or privileges—a move that has been widely appreciated in policy circles and among crypto stakeholders. The government clarified that his advisory role will remain in effect until further notice.
The concept of the National Crypto Council—which is currently under consideration—emerged from a high-level meeting chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb.
The council is envisioned to serve as a regulatory think tank, gathering top government officials, industry experts, and regulatory authorities to guide policy development and tackle legal challenges around digital currencies.
According to an official statement, “The Crypto Council will guide the country in policy development, ensure a secure and sustainable crypto environment, and work with international partners to create globally compatible frameworks.”
This appointment is also personal for many Pakistanis who have followed Bilal Bin Saqib’s journey from his educational roots at LSE to his global recognition, including receiving an MBE (Member of the British Empire). His philanthropic efforts through Paani Project, co-founded with his brother Momin Saqib, have already made headlines.
As Pakistan gears up to modernize its technological and financial ecosystem, Bilal’s inclusion signals a dynamic shift in how the country perceives digital transformation.
