Saqib wins cross-border praise at Bitcoin Asia Conference

Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Blockchain and Crypto (SAPM), Bilal Bin Saqib, represented Pakistan at the recent Bitcoin Asia Conference in Hong Kong, emphasising how Pakistan is carving out a distinct global identity in the cryptocurrency space.

He emphasised that regulation would be key to mainstream adoption, with both regional and international experts acknowledging its progress.

“Every country should have a basic regulatory regime through which it can contribute towards exchanges, custody and stablecoins,” he said, describing such a framework as a “game changer” in the global acceptance of Bitcoin.

The Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority, set up earlier this year, has already positioned the country as South Asia’s first independent crypto regulatory body — a development seen as pivotal for the digital finance sector.

Read: Govt forms authority to regulate virtual assets

Saqib, while addressing the audience, called it a historic moment for the country. “This is something very close to my heart. Today is seen as a remarkable day, as Pakistan is viewed not through a lens of fear but of possibility and innovation,” he said.

He noted that Pakistan’s approach could guide other emerging economies. “It is not just a new dawn for Pakistan but for the whole world, where Pakistan can become a case study for emerging markets.

We can be of help to Morocco, Malaysia and all other emerging economies in how they adopt the digital asset framework,” he added.

Saqib also posted on his X handle, calling the moment a turning point for Pakistan’s digital future. " Once misunderstood. Now unstoppable. BTC & Pakistan are flipping the script."

Read More: SBP links digital assets to forex law

His leadership also drew appreciation from across the border. Indian crypto influencer Bitcoin Wala praised his role, saying: “We need leaders like Bilal Bin Saqib in India as well.”

With cryptocurrency and blockchain gaining traction, Pakistan is increasingly being recognised as more than just a participant — it is positioning itself as a potential model for digital innovation across the Global South.