Latest news with #MBE
The Print
2 days ago
- Business
- The Print
Why is Pakistan going all out on crypto? There's a Donald Trump angle
Crypto is already widely popular in Pakistan, with around 20 million users —far more than the 420,000 people who invest in the capital market—placing the country among the global top 10 for crypto trading. In a surprising move, in late April, Pakistan partnered with World Liberty Financial (WLF), a company linked to the US President Donald Trump's family. WLF has promised to help Pakistan develop blockchain tools, tokenise assets, and provide crypto industry guidance. However, details of the deal remain vague. New Delhi: As its economy remains in shambles and ever dependent on IMF bailouts, a desperate Pakistan is trying hard to find a new window of growth. And this new life line is coming in the form of cryptocurrency and a company that has links to US President Donald Trump. In February 2025, the government formed a Crypto Council, and on Tuesday, it upgraded this into a full regulatory body called the Pakistan Digital Asset Authority. This new authority will oversee and regulate digital assets like crypto and blockchain-based technologies. The government now aims to regulate and tax the sector, attract foreign investment, and legitimise the ecosystem through the newly formed Pakistan Digital Asset Authority (PDAA), led by Bilal Bin Saqib—a Forbes 30 Under 30 and MBE awardee. Pakistani-British entrepreneur Saqib's appointment signals Pakistan's push to align with global trends. With global crypto exchange platforms like Binance and Stacks showing interest, Pakistan is also allocating power for data centres to support crypto mining and AI. Saqib is tasked with creating a FATF-compliant crypto framework, launching Bitcoin mining, regulating it, and integrating blockchain into governance and finance. However, questions are being raised about policymaking and governmental control. Hussain Nadeem, a policy strategist and Pakistani AI expert, posed a few questions to Bilal Bin Saqib, who earlier headed the Pakistan Crypto Council and will now lead the PDAA. In a long post on X, he asked if there was a white paper on crypto advancement in Pakistan, how much of governmental/army control there would be and whether there were public discussions on policymaking in crypto post the tie-up with Trump's company. Nadeem's questions point toward larger policy hiccups. Industry experts, however, are confident of the prospects of crypto in Pakistan. 'The founders of WLFI recently visited Pakistan and expressed strong interest in supporting our crypto ecosystem. With their stablecoin valued at over $2 billion, WLFI is a significant global player. While the details of our collaboration will be announced soon, possibly at the upcoming Bitcoin Vegas Conference, their visit alone signals growing international confidence in Pakistan's crypto ambitions,' Ali Farid Khwaja, chairman at KTrade Securities and a domain expert, told ThePrint. Geopolitical concerns There are also geopolitical implications. An article from The Economist's May edition pointed out that many in India interpreted the US-Pakistan crypto deal as Pakistan's way to win Trump's favour, which perhaps even led to Trump declaring the ceasefire. In late April, Texas-based logistics firm Fr8Tech made headlines by pledging up to $20 million to buy $TRUMP, a cryptocurrency launched by Donald Trump. The firm, linked to World Liberty Finance, also promised to help Pakistan develop blockchain products and provide crypto industry advice—raising eyebrows globally. Meanwhile, the Trump family's deep ties to crypto via promotion, regulation, and investor perks like exclusive dinners are drawing the industry into US politics. While this gives crypto unprecedented visibility, critics in The Economist article, warn that its association with a partisan figure could ultimately harm its broader legitimacy. Nadeem too, in his criticism, compared the new crypto push to the Pakistan Army's involvement in Special Investment Facilitation Council, which is a federal body under the Pakistan government but one that is effectively run by the Pakistan military, including 36 active military officers. Established in 2023, under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, SIFC aims to increase foreign investment and ease business but heavy military presence in the council has sparked concerns over civilian-military power balance. Calling it a 'great disservice to the country', Nadeem said 'Crypto is the new SIFC' 'The way this regime is approaching Crypto, it has unfortunately become a new con that has politics, not public good, as an end goal…. The regime has only ONE interest in Crypto: Access to the Trump White House, and sadly this hype is all about that, nothing more,' he wrote on X. Even Indian analysts are issuing words of caution. Pakistan's growing crypto adoption highlights a significant shift in the region's digital strategy—one India should closely monitor given the potential geopolitical and economic impacts, distinguished fellow at the Council on Strategic and Defence Research, C Raja Mohan, wrote in a recent column for The Indian Express. Khwaja, however, is hopeful for crypto's prospects in Pakistan and is not worried about governmental control overriding the positive impacts. Since the Crypto Council was announced just three months ago, Pakistan has attracted significant attention from some of the top names in the crypto industry. Binance, World Liberty Finance, crypto billionaire Justin Sun, and Stacks, a New York-based token with a $2 billion market cap, have all publicly announced engagements with Pakistan, he said. 'This surge of inbound interest from major global players is driving investment and prompting the government to actively facilitate regulations, aiming to position Pakistan as both a regional and global leader in crypto,' Khwaja said. He also added that, unlike before, when interest was often met with scepticism, the government is embracing these opportunities. 'It's not about trying to force development; companies are coming forward saying, 'We want to invest,' and Pakistan is responding. Similarly, in the US, President Trump has expressed a strong desire for the country to lead globally in this space, reflecting how quickly things are evolving worldwide,' he added. (Edited by Theres Sudeep)
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First Post
2 days ago
- Business
- First Post
7 things about Bilal Bin Saqib, the man behind Pakistan's big Bitcoin bet
Here are 7 things to know about Bilal Bin Saqib, Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC) Chief Executive Officer and the man behind Islamabad's big Bitcoin bet read more On Thursday, Pakistan unveiled the cash-strapped nation's first government-led Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. The launch came just days after the country's Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, appointed Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC) Chief Executive Officer Bilal Bin Saqib as his special assistant on blockchain and cryptocurrency. Saqib was also given the status of Minister of State. With its latest endeavour, Pakistan is seeking to lure American investment, given US President Donald Trump's inclination towards cryptocurrency. While delivering an address at Bitcoin Vegas 2025, in front of United States Vice President JD Vance, Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr, Saqib spoke about the country's latest endeavour, Dawn reported. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 'Pakistan is no longer defined by its past. It is being reborn as a forward-looking hub of digital innovation — powered by its youth, sharpened by necessity, and led by a new generation of tech statesmen,' said Saqib, in a statement issued by his office. 'I'm not just here as a minister,' he said. 'I'm here as the voice of a generation — a generation that is online, on-chain, and unstoppable," he said during the event. Here's everything you need to know about the man at the centre of Pakistan's crypto push. 7 things to know about Bilal Bin Saqib Saqib is the founder of Tayaba, a social enterprise that aims to provide solutions to the water crisis in Pakistan. One of the initiatives of his company was the 'H2O wheel,' which is a plastic wheel container connected to a metal bar that helps to reduce the burden on women and children who carry water in rural Pakistan. His company turned out to be a success, distributing 5,500 H2O wheels in Pakistan. As per the government press release, in his new role, Saqib will be responsible for developing a comprehensive, FATF-compliant regulatory framework for digital assets. He will also be responsible for launching Bitcoin mining initiatives and overseeing blockchain integration in governance, finance, and land records, Dawn reported. Saqib was part of the '30 under 30' list in the year 2020. He received his MBE in 2023 for contributions to the UK's National Health Service. It is pertinent to note that MBE stands for 'Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire," and is awarded to those who provide outstanding service to the community. According to Dawn, Pakistan currently has 40 million crypto users and an annual crypto trading volume of over $300 billion. 'Pakistan's unique demographic and digital landscape offers an unprecedented opportunity to leapfrog into the future of technology, where blockchain and crypto will drive economic growth, innovation, and global competitiveness," Saqib said at the Vegas event.
The Courier
2 days ago
- General
- The Courier
Tribute to 'honest and hardworking' Auchtermuchty firefighter and joiner Eddie Kotlewski MBE who's died at 71
Eddie Kotlewski, MBE, a respected Auchtermuchty businessman, retained firefighter, and joiner who dedicated his life to serving his community, has died suddenly at the age of 71 – just one day after celebrating his golden wedding anniversary with family. He passed away unexpectedly on April 21, having spent the previous day with his wife Helen, children and grandchildren for a special family gathering to mark 50 years of marriage. The joy of that occasion made the news of his death all the more shocking for those who knew and loved him. Eddie is perhaps best remembered in firefighting circles for leading a pioneering fire safety initiative in 1992. This followed the tragic death of an elderly resident in Auchtermuchty's first fire fatality in many years. He was deeply moved and convinced the loss could have been prevented by a simple smoke alarm, so he sprang into action. With the support of the firemaster John White – who also passed away recently – he launched a locally funded campaign to provide and install free smoke detectors in the homes of senior citizens across Auchtermuchty, Strathmiglo and Dunshalt. His efforts led to 837 homes being visited and 168 alarms fitted, well ahead of formal community fire safety programmes. Eddie was awarded the MBE in the 1997 New Year Honours, in recognition of his work. He received the honour from the Queen at Buckingham Palace – lightening the moment with his trademark humour by offering her a quote to repair the palace roof, which had been in the news that week. Her Majesty responded with a smile. Paying tribute to his dad, son Gavin, himself a Station Commander within the fire service, said: 'He was a quiet, honest hardworking man who provided for his family and was glad when they were happy. 'He was always on the go whether it was the joinery or the fire service and yet when he came into the house, he was pleased to see his sons and Helen. He was content at home.' Born on March 14 1954, at 9 High Road, Auchtermuchty, Eddie was the sixth of nine children born to Violet and Anthony Kotlewski. He attended school in Auchtermuchty before studying at Bell Baxter High School in Cupar. Teenage Eddie joined the Air Training Corps and won medals for boxing and rugby. He had a lifelong love for aviation and would often attend the Leuchars airshow. Eddie apprenticed with his father in construction when he left school, erecting garages and sheds. In 1972, aged just 18, he joined Fife Fire & Rescue Service as a retained firefighter – the same year he met Helen, who worked in the office. They married in Glenrothes on April 26 1975. The couple settled in 'Muchty where Eddie rebuilt the couple's first home on Cupar Road, then took on another project on the High Street. He later renovated an old warehouse into three homes for himself and his brothers, David and Fraser – all fellow firefighters. His construction company, Gleneden Construction Ltd, was founded in 1977, with Helen working alongside him in the office. As well as David, Fraser and Gavin serving at the same time in the fire service, Tony and Fraser also worked for him as joiners. He also employed neighbours and fellow firefighters, always ensuring cover at the fire station was maintained. Eddie had a remarkable memory for every building project he worked on. One day, he parked in a quiet field on the outskirts of Auchtermuchty, admiring the view. That land became Westbank – six bespoke houses built to capture that vista. He and Helen moved into the final one, No. 35, in 2001. He built a conservatory so they could enjoy the view each day. Eddie joined Fife Fire & Rescue Service as a retained firefighter at Auchtermuchty Fire Station on July 10 1972, aged 18. He served for 14.5 years before being promoted to Leading Firefighter on January 1 1987. On November 4 1989, he was promoted to Sub Officer, assuming command of the station. Morale and performance soared under his leadership. He was particularly skilled at staying calm under pressure and managing difficult incidents while supporting his team – both seasoned and new recruits alike. He lived with severe rheumatoid arthritis from 1991. Despite constant pain, he remained resilient and active. He was always thinking, solving problems, and quietly persevering. Eddie and Helen had two sons, Gavin and Jon who now have their own families. Being a grandad brought Eddie immense joy. Eddie was always a calm, content presence at home – a man who gave fully of himself and found happiness in quiet, steady things. He was also deeply interested in politics and current affairs, often listening to Talk Radio. In retirement, Eddie and Helen bought a home in Fort Myers, Florida which they had for 20 years. He bought a boat and was happiest on the water, watching hawks circle overhead and chatting with neighbours Cathy and Bill, who became close friends. He loved seeing wildlife – alligators, bears, and even a pair of panthers that once wandered past the house. Eddie also loved animals – especially his dogs. Muttley the dachshund became a family pet in an unconventional way: Eddie was working for a client who had a litter, and his 'fee' was one of the pups. Over time, Muttley became as much Violet and Anthony's dog as his own. Later came Ellie, who went everywhere in the van – once locking herself inside it, to Eddie's great amusement and frustration. Eddie had to break into his own van to get the dog out. In recent years, he enjoyed visits from Gavin's dog Ruby. Eddie could 'fix anything', and if he didn't know how, he'd find a way. He and Helen travelled widely – to China, where they dined with former Prime Minister Ted Heath through a mutual friend, to Mauritius, Canada, and on cruises across the Atlantic to New York before heading to Florida. Eddie is survived by wife Helen, sons Gavin and Jon and grand children Evan, Hamish, Lewis, Rhys, Maddy, Max, Rosie and Blair. He was also a dear brother and uncle.
Leader Live
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Leader Live
Local clubs need to adapt to encourage disability sports
Being a wheelchair user, I have often been told that there is no space for me in certain aspects of life. I grew up on the ice rink as an ice dancer, followed by a performer on the big stage, but when I swapped my legs for my wheels, my whole world changed, and I found myself having to leave that life behind. Trying to get involved in something where I felt I 'fitted' never worked, especially when I was in a powerchair. Paralympic gold medallist Jonnie Peacock plays football with people with disabilities taking part in the launch event of Every Body Moves campaign in March 2023. ( Sam Mellish) (Image: Sam Mellish) There are many disabilities out there that are catered for in the sporting world. Still, every time I looked, I had the opinion that as I wasn't a manual wheelchair user, I had no upper body strength, lower body strength, or middle body strength, for that matter, I wouldn't be catered for. Until last year. A post shared by ParalympicsGB (@paralympicsgb_official) While watching people train, I was approached and asked: 'Do you want to have a go?' I think I looked at people as if they had two heads. Since my wheels, I had never been asked to participate in a sport. This is one reason ParalympicsGB started the 'Everybody Moves' campaign: so people could find a sport and get involved, no matter their ability. No matter where I went, I was surprised by the accessibility to sports. British Rowing, something I never thought would be accessible, explained how they adapt the boats to the individual's needs. I have since received emails inviting me to their trial days. Being afraid of water, I think I'll sit this one out, though! Sport isn't for everyone, and that is fine. These days, I am a more behind-the-computer-screen type of girl, but attending events and seeing people get involved in different sports they never thought possible was touching. WheelPower holds trial days to allow people to try new, adaptable, and inclusive sports. Being asked to cover their events, including their upcoming Junior Games, is a privilege, as you see people through their journeys. Finding a sport adapted to your disability can be even more challenging when you don't know where to start. Recommended Reading ParalympicsGB star Poppy Maskill gets early birthday treat as she collects MBE Memorable moments for ParalympicsGB from Paris 2024 Royal Mint 50p coin celebrates Team GB and ParalympicsGB athletes Adaptive sports are evolving. I recently discovered that a skating rink near me has a session once a week for people with disabilities, which allows manual wheelchairs onto the ice. With the help of my PA, after 20 years next month, I will finally get back on the ice, and that is a feeling I cannot comprehend at the moment. But more local clubs need to be adaptable, especially for children. However, most teachers are unaware of how to make these changes, so it can come down to individuals to show the clubs what can be done to make them more inclusive. Starting a sport for someone with a disability can seem like a minefield. A year ago, I wouldn't have known where to look. However, there are clubs out there. It is about researching, talking, and those who are not adaptable, trying to teach them, and all of us working together.
Scottish Sun
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Two Doors Down star reveals awkward encounter with member of Royal Family after she mocked them
She wasn't sure how the Royal would react to her joke ROYAL RIDICULE Two Doors Down star reveals awkward encounter with member of Royal Family after she mocked them Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) TWO Doors Down star Arabella Weir has revealed she risked upsetting Princess Anne by making fun of her lack of qualifications. The actress was presented with an MBE by the Princess Royal at Buckingham Palace last year. Sign up for the Entertainment newsletter Sign up 2 Two Doors Down star Arabella Weir poked fun at Princess Anne when presented with her MBE Credit: PA 2 She is best known for playing Beth Baird in the hit BBC comedy Credit: Handout After being told by a friend to make the princess laugh when receiving the honour, Weir poked fun at the royal's academic performance. When Princess Anne confessed she wasn't very good at school, Weir jokingly replied: "We all know that." Princess Anne famously never went to university and left school with a handful of O-levels and two A-levels. Weir, who plays Beth Baird in Two Doors Down, said she was relieved when the Royal laughed after her quip. Speaking on presenter Lewis Nicholls' YouTube channel, she said: "I'm not a royalist or anything but I was quite nervous before it. "My friend who went with me and my two children to the palace said to me 'Just make her laugh' and I did. "Princess Anne said to me 'I know who you are but why are you getting this?' "I said 'Oh I think it's because I make people laugh'. "She said 'When did you first realise you were funny?' and I said 'At school because I wasn't very academic.' "She said 'Neither was I,' and I went 'We all know that,' because famously she didn't do well. Two Doors Down star looks worlds away in unrecognisable BBC newsreader role "As it came out of my mouth I thought 'Is that something you're not supposed to say to royalty,' but she laughed. She was jolly nice." Weir, 67, received her MBE for service to acting and charity work. She made her name in The Fast Show alongside co-stars Paul Whitehouse, Charlie Higson and John Thomson. She has played Beth in Two Doors Down since 2016 and is set to reunite with the cast for a Christmas special this year. Princess Anne was taught at home in a small class before going to Benenden School in Kent at the age of 13, the first sovereign's daughter to attend boarding school. She left five years later, with six O-levels and two A-levels and instead of going to university she entered the public life of the Royal Family. Since then she has come to be regarded as the busiest and most hard-working of all the Royals and is well-known for her no-nonsense approach. In a documentary to mark her 70th birthday in 2020, she said: "So many of my contemporaries, when asked why they were going to university, would say, 'Well basically because that's what you do.' "And I remember thinking really that doesn't sound like a very good reason to go university, so I thought I would skip that."
