Minister of State for Crypto and Blockchain Bilal Bin Saqib met New York City Mayor Eric Adams to express appreciation for his contributions toward developing a strong crypto ecosystem. The meeting, held at Mayor Adams’ official residence, Gracie Mansion, also focused on the potential for collaboration between the Pakistan and NYC Crypto Councils. Both leaders emphasized the importance of cross-border cooperation in shaping the next phase of Web3 innovation.
During the discussion, Saqib acknowledged Adams’ role in advancing the crypto sector in the US and suggested that Pakistan’s Crypto Council is open to partnering with New York City on regulatory frameworks and technological development in the digital asset space. With both jurisdictions having established their own crypto councils, the meeting marked a significant step towards fostering bilateral engagement on digital policy. Saqib proposed knowledge-sharing platforms, policy advisory exchanges, and joint capacity-building efforts to support the responsible growth of blockchain-based systems in both regions.
Mayor Adams responded warmly to the invitation extended by Saqib to visit Pakistan, humorously remarking, “We consider New York to be Lahore.” The moment was symbolic of the broader goal to build diplomatic and technological bridges through shared interests in digital innovation. The discussion also explored common challenges faced by both developing and advanced economies in regulating and scaling digital infrastructure. These included issues of equitable access, security, and the role of crypto in public financial systems.
The meeting coincided with Mayor Adams extending Eid greetings to the Muslim community in New York, which numbers over 800,000 and is among the largest Muslim populations in the United States. This cultural acknowledgment added further meaning to the diplomatic engagement, emphasizing the role of community and shared values in fostering international cooperation on emerging technologies.
Saqib’s meeting with Adams was the concluding event of his official visit to the United States, which focused on public-private partnerships, blockchain innovation, and the establishment of formal ties with international crypto stakeholders. Earlier in his week-long visit, Saqib met with several US lawmakers known for their roles in advancing digital asset legislation. These included Senator Cynthia Lummis, who has co-authored major crypto bills, and Senators Bill Hagerty, Rick Scott, Tim Sheehy, and Jim Justice, all of whom have voiced support for initiatives such as recognizing Bitcoin as a strategic reserve asset.
He also met with Representatives Troy Downing, Ryan Zinke, Rick McCormick, and Derrick Van Orden, who are actively shaping the US policy landscape for digital currencies. The visit was organized around his participation in the Bitcoin 2025 Conference held in Las Vegas, where Saqib officially announced Pakistan’s first government-led strategic Bitcoin reserve, positioning the country on a new path in its digital asset policy.
This high-level engagement between Saqib and Adams reflects an emerging trend of dialogue between global cities and developing nations on how best to regulate and foster innovation in the rapidly evolving world of blockchain and cryptocurrencies.
