Pakistan's Risky Crypto Deal: USD1 Stablecoin Partnership Raises Economic, Political Concerns

• Pakistan signed an MoU with SC Financial Technologies, linked to Donald Trump's family crypto venture World Liberty Financial, to explore USD1 stablecoin integration.
• The deal aims to use the US dollar-pegged USD1 for cross-border payments and digital transactions, amidst Pakistan's economic stress and high remittances.
• Pakistani army chief Asim Munir and ISI head Muhammad Asim Malik's presence at the signing highlights the military's influence in economic decisions.
• Concerns arise over the deal's timing, Pakistan's fragile economy, and the USD1 stablecoin's integration with Tron, a blockchain previously linked to illicit activities.
• The partnership is seen as a politically loaded move, potentially deepening ties with the Trump administration while raising ethical and reputational red flags for Pakistan.

Why It Matters: Pakistan's crypto deal with a Trump-linked firm sparks economic and political concerns amid financial fragility.