In a game-changing move for Pakistan’s digital finance landscape, Binance founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ) has officially joined the Pakistan Crypto Council as a Strategic Advisor. With this historic appointment, Pakistan is signaling its commitment to embracing digital currency, blockchain innovation, and a Web3-powered future. CZ’s involvement is not just symbolic — it reflects a bold vision to position Pakistan among the world’s most progressive crypto nations.
From regulatory reform to Web3 development, CZ’s involvement signals Pakistan’s strongest commitment yet to blockchain, fintech, and youth empowerment.
Who is CZ and Why Does It Matter?
Changpeng Zhao, often referred to simply as CZ, is one of the most influential voices in the world of cryptocurrency. Having founded Binance in 2017, CZ rapidly built it into a global leader in digital assets, trading billions daily and offering hundreds of tokens on its platform.
While his past isn’t without controversy — including a recent legal settlement in the U.S. — his reputation for disruptive innovation and vision for decentralized finance (DeFi) remains unmatched.
Pakistan is now partnering with a man who once shared stages with Elon Musk and redefined global finance.
The Pakistan Crypto Council – A New Dawn
Established by the Finance Division of Pakistan, the Pakistan Crypto Council is tasked with integrating blockchain technology and digital assets into the nation’s economy. Its focus includes:
- Developing regulatory frameworks
- Promoting crypto education
- Encouraging blockchain innovation
- Attracting foreign investment
By onboarding CZ, the PCC has made a powerful global statement: Pakistan is not just exploring crypto — it’s investing in it.
Strategic Meetings at the Highest Levels
CZ’s appointment was announced following high-level meetings in Islamabad, where he met with:
- Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif
- Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar
- Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb
- State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Governor
- Securities and Exchange Commission (SECP) Chairman
The tone of the meetings was clear: innovation, collaboration, and global competitiveness.
Finance Minister Aurangzeb remarked,
We are sending a clear message to the world: Pakistan is open for innovation. With CZ onboard, we are accelerating our vision to become a regional powerhouse for Web3 and blockchain-based growth.
Why Pakistan? Why Now?
With over 240 million people, and more than 60% of the population under the age of 30, Pakistan is one of the youngest and most digitally active nations in the world. This youthful energy makes it fertile ground for crypto adoption.
CZ noted:
The potential here is limitless. Pakistan is opening its doors to the future of finance, and I’m excited to be a part of it.
His strategy will revolve around:
- Building regulatory clarity
- Advising on crypto infrastructure
- Promoting financial inclusion
- Enhancing digital literacy
Regulatory Challenges and Global Context
Historically, Pakistan has had a cautious stance toward cryptocurrencies due to FATF regulations, with the SBP previously labeling crypto as illegal tender. However, with Pakistan now off the FATF grey list, the timing couldn’t be better.
The government is reportedly:
- Drafting amendments to the SBP Act
- Considering crypto licensing frameworks
- Exploring Bitcoin mining and asset tokenization
CZ’s expertise will be instrumental in ensuring compliance while accelerating innovation.
Positioning Pakistan on the Global Crypto Map
CZ’s appointment marks a pivot — one that could position Pakistan alongside tech-forward hubs like Singapore, Dubai, and Switzerland.
Bilal Bin Saqib, CEO of PCC, aptly put it:
Who better to guide us than CZ, a pioneer who changed how the world thinks about financial freedom?
With Pakistan aiming to become a Web3-ready nation, this collaboration could also attract tech talent, create jobs, and elevate Pakistan’s economic profile globally.
Looking Ahead: What Can We Expect?
Here’s what CZ’s advisory role could bring in the near future:
- Startup incubators focused on blockchain
- Educational programs for youth and developers
- Public-private partnerships in fintech
- A possible legal tender framework for crypto assets
This strategic relationship could be the catalyst that turns Pakistan into a leading destination for crypto innovation and investment.
Changpeng Zhao’s entry into Pakistan’s digital finance scene is more than symbolic — it’s transformational. With the government’s renewed focus, youth potential, and CZ’s visionary guidance, Pakistan is poised to become a global player in the crypto space.
The crypto revolution is here, and Pakistan is no longer a spectator — it’s a contender.