From Wall Street to Islamabad: A Crypto Mastermind Joins Pakistan’s Gameplan, But Who Is He?
In a step toward embracing cryptocurrency at the national level, Pakistan has secured the backing of one of the most influential figures in the digital asset space: Michael Saylor, executive chairman of Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy).
During a high-level meeting in Islamabad this week, Saylor offered his support to Pakistan’s evolving crypto ambitions and expressed readiness to serve as an adviser on the country’s digital asset roadmap.
The meeting brought together Pakistan’s Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and State Minister for Blockchain and Crypto Policy, Bilal Bin Saqib.
According to a government statement, discussions focused on the potential role of Bitcoin in Pakistan’s financial reserves and the broader use of blockchain in public systems. Saylor highlighted the country’s intellectual capital and global business ties as key strengths in its pivot to Web3.
“Pakistan has brilliant minds and a strong business foundation,” Saylor said in a video shared by the Finance Ministry. “Leadership and clarity of vision will attract global capital, and I believe Pakistan has both.”
Bitcoin as a National Asset?
As chair of Strategy, the public company with the largest Bitcoin holdings in the world, 582,000 BTC valued at over $61 billion, Saylor is seen as a pioneer in corporate crypto strategy. His endorsement is widely interpreted as a vote of confidence in Pakistan’s digital future.
Pakistan recently established a dedicated crypto authority and has signaled its intent to create a national Bitcoin reserve. The goal, according to officials, is to position the country as a leader in digital finance among emerging markets.
Saylor emphasized that market trust is critical. “The world gave us billions because they believed in our strategy. That same trust can flow to Pakistan if you continue to lead with integrity and vision.”
A Role Model for the Global South
Minister Bilal Bin Saqib described the meeting as a “milestone” for the country’s crypto evolution. “We aim to present Pakistan as a Web3-ready nation and a competitive player in the global digital economy,” he said.
Finance Minister Aurangzeb echoed this sentiment, noting that Pakistan aspires to take a leadership role in the Global South’s adoption of digital assets. “This is about more than technology, it’s about building trust, resilience, and a future, ready economy.”
Saqib also pointed to Saylor’s transformation of Strategy into a Bitcoin powerhouse as a model to follow. “If an individual can do this in the U.S., why can’t a nation like ours?”
Legal Reforms in Motion
Earlier this month, Pakistan’s newly established Crypto Council, backed by the government, submitted a draft legal framework for digital assets. The Finance Ministry has committed to fast-tracking its review and approval. Saqib, who also serves as the Council’s CEO, is overseeing the regulatory overhaul.
The move highlights Pakistan’s intention to formalize and expand its crypto infrastructure, even as other countries take a more cautious approach.
