Binance Founder CZ Appointed Strategic Adviser to Pakistan Crypto Council

Changpeng Zhao, commonly known as CZ, the founder of Binance, has been appointed as a strategic adviser to the Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC). The announcement was made during a high-level meeting on Monday, chaired by Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb.

A Landmark Move for Pakistan’s Web3 Ambitions

The appointment marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s journey toward becoming a regional powerhouse for Web3, digital finance, and blockchain innovation. Speaking on the development, Finance Minister Aurangzeb called it a “landmark moment” and emphasized that Pakistan is sending a clear message of being open to financial innovation.

“With CZ onboard, we are accelerating our vision to make Pakistan a regional powerhouse for Web3,” Aurangzeb stated. He added that the move signals Pakistan’s readiness to embrace the future of finance.

CZ’s Role and Vision

As a strategic adviser, CZ will focus on regulatory guidance, infrastructure development, education, and adoption of blockchain technology in Pakistan. His involvement is expected to foster a compliant, inclusive, and globally competitive crypto ecosystem.

CZ, one of the most influential figures in the Web3 space, also met with key government stakeholders during his visit, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, and officials from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), and the Finance Division.

“Pakistan is a country of 240 million people, with over 60% under the age of 30. The potential here is limitless,” CZ remarked, highlighting the demographic advantage that makes Pakistan an ideal candidate for Web3 adoption.

Pakistan Crypto Council: A New Era for Digital Finance

The Pakistan Crypto Council, formed last month under the Finance Division, is tasked with leading the country’s digital transformation. The council’s leadership includes:

• Chairman: Minister for Finance and Revenue
• Members: Governor of SBP, Federal Secretary of Law and Justice, Federal Secretary of IT, and Chairman of SECP
• CEO: Bilal Bin Saqib, a global blockchain advocate

Saqib, who has represented Pakistan on the international stage at events like NFT NYC, the World Economic Forum, and ETH Barcelona, sees CZ’s involvement as a pivotal step. “Pakistan is opening its doors to the future of finance. Who better to guide us on this journey than CZ?” he remarked.

Why Pakistan Matters in the Crypto Landscape

Pakistan ranks 3rd globally in crypto adoption and boasts 20 million active cryptocurrency users. The country has seen $20 billion+ in crypto transactions and ranks in the top 10 worldwide for crypto adoption. With $35 billion in annual remittances, integrating crypto could significantly streamline cross-border payments.

The move to appoint CZ as an adviser reflects Pakistan’s intention to position itself alongside global crypto hubs like Singapore, Dubai, and Switzerland. The government is focused on creating a regulatory environment that balances innovation with compliance.

A Strategic Vision for Web3 and Blockchain

According to the PCC, the primary goal of CZ’s advisory role is to develop a regulated and forward-looking digital asset environment. This includes:

• Crafting crypto regulations that are aligned with global standards
• Building robust blockchain infrastructure
• Promoting education to increase blockchain literacy
• Driving adoption of digital finance solutions

CZ expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating that advising governments on blockchain integration is “extremely meaningful”. He aims to help Pakistan build a decentralized and innovative financial ecosystem that empowers its youthful population.

Global Impact and Future Prospects

Pakistan’s embrace of blockchain and Web3 is seen as a strategic move to harness the potential of its tech-savvy youth. By leveraging CZ’s expertise, the government hopes to build a modern, blockchain-integrated economy that can compete on the global stage.

With CZ’s guidance, Pakistan could set a precedent for how emerging economies navigate the adoption of decentralized technologies while ensuring regulatory compliance. As the world’s largest crypto exchange founder takes on this advisory role, Pakistan’s digital finance landscape is poised for transformation.

What It Means For You [NFA]

If you’re a crypto enthusiast or developer, Pakistan’s proactive approach toward Web3 could create new opportunities. With CZ’s involvement, the country might soon become a significant player in the blockchain space. Keep an eye on how regulatory frameworks evolve, as they may set a model for other emerging markets.

Disclaimer: This is not financial advice (NFA). Always do your own research before making investment decisions.

Community Reaction

Apart from the sarcastic comments from some Indian crypto users, most of the community seemed quite happy with the announcement. The crypto community in Pakistan seemed particularly happy given the economic problems the country has been having in the last couple of years.

• Paradex Network: “20m new pump fun users damn”
• The Crypto Professor: “The global crypto adoption continues”