- Pakistan’s crypto minister met Trump’s digital assets team at White House to discuss Bitcoin reserve plans and cross-border cooperation.
- Pakistan proposed allocating 2,000MW surplus power for Bitcoin mining and AI data centers to transform unused energy.
On June 4, Pakistan’s Crypto and Blockchain Minister Bilal Bin Saqib held talks with US digital assets leadership at the White House. Saqib discussed plans with Robert “Bo” Hines, Executive Director of former President Trump’s Council on Digital Assets.
The talks centered on U.S.-Pakistan cooperation in digital assets. Topics included Bitcoin policy, infrastructure development, and regulatory alignment.
Saqib presented Pakistan’s Strategic Bitcoin Reserve initiative during the meeting. He later stated his goal to establish Pakistan as a digital assets leader. The plan involves using surplus electricity for Bitcoin mining and AI data zones. Pakistan aims to direct 2,000 megawatts toward these projects. This would convert unused energy into economic value.
Separately, Saqib met the White House Counsel’s Office to discuss blockchain governance frameworks. Pakistan is creating the Pakistan Digital Assets Authority (PDAA). This body will regulate exchanges, stablecoins, and decentralized finance platforms. The Finance Ministry formally endorsed the PDAA on May 21.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has questioned Pakistan’s energy allocation. On May 31, the IMF sought clarification about dedicating power to crypto mining. This occurred during ongoing talks about Pakistan’s financial program. The IMF noted concerns over energy shortages and legal uncertainties.
Hines was appointed by Trump to lead U.S. digital assets policy. The Trump administration has prioritized establishing U.S. leadership in this field.
