ISLAMABAD — Pakistan and U.S.-based World Liberty Financial signed a memorandum of understanding on digital payments on Monday, marking a key step in Pakistan’s push to modernize its financial system.
The agreement came after a meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and a senior delegation of World Liberty Financial, led by Chief Executive Officer Zachery Witkoff, in Islamabad.
During the meeting, both sides discussed expanding digital payments in Pakistan. Moreover, they explored opportunities for financial innovation. Officials said the talks focused on improving access, transparency, and efficiency through technology.
Welcoming the delegation, Prime Minister Sharif outlined his vision for a “Digital Pakistan.” He emphasized that digital connectivity and transparency are central to the government’s reform agenda. In addition, he highlighted that digital payments play a major role in Pakistan’s growing digital economy.
Several senior officials also attended the meeting. These included Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Defence Forces and Army Chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Syed Tariq Fatemi, and Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority Chairman Bilal Bin Saqib. Their presence underscored the government’s strong focus on digital financial reforms.
PM further welcomed rising global interest in Pakistan’s digital finance market. He noted that Pakistan is steadily integrating into the global digital economy. As a result, the country is emerging as an attractive destination for financial technology investment.
According to officials, World Liberty Financial’s interest reflects broader international engagement with Pakistan’s digital transformation efforts. In this context, Witkoff said his company is keen to help Pakistan build a secure and transparent digital payments infrastructure. He also highlighted potential collaboration in cross-border settlements and foreign exchange payments.
Furthermore, he praised Pakistan’s policy framework, noting that it positions the country as an important player in the global digital economy. Witkoff added that his company wants to deepen cooperation on next-generation digital payments and cross-border financial innovation.
Officials said the MoU lays the groundwork for future collaboration in digital finance. Consequently, the government expects such partnerships to accelerate digital adoption and strengthen Pakistan’s position in the evolving global financial landscape.
