WLFI, CZ Dispute WSJ Reports on Pakistan Ties, US Links

World Liberty Financial (WLFI) and Binance founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ) publicly rejected allegations made by the Wall Street Journal that they jointly engaged in political or diplomatic activity during a business visit to Pakistan. The article claimed WLFI sought US government influence and involved CZ to broker discussions—a narrative both parties call false.

CZ responded via a post on X, calling the article a “hit piece” designed to mislead. He referenced Cunningham’s Law, stating that the best way to elicit the truth online is by first publishing inaccuracies. CZ criticized the WSJ for what he described as “negative assumptions” embedded in their interview questions and flatly denied playing any intermediary role for WLFI in Pakistan.

WLFI’s Clarification on Pakistan Trip

WLFI co-founder Zak Folkman directly addressed the claims, dismissing any narrative of a joint strategy with Binance or links to US policy interests. According to Folkman, the company’s visit to Pakistan was strictly business-focused and included a meeting with Bilal bin Saqib, a long-standing friend and Pakistan’s crypto council advisor.

“We did not discuss or engage in any foreign policy matters,” said Folkman.
“There has been no coordination with the US government on any level.”

Folkman also countered the WSJ’s claims involving Steve Witkoff and his son, asserting there was no involvement of US political figures in WLFI’s activities. The company insists its trip was rooted in exploring blockchain opportunities, not politics.

History of Disputed WSJ Coverage

This is not the first time CZ has publicly rejected Wall Street Journal reporting. In April, the outlet alleged CZ cooperated with U.S. authorities against crypto figure Justin Sun—a charge CZ denied. In March, it was reported that the Trump family had engaged in talks to purchase a stake in Binance US, a story also dismissed as speculative.

Key Points at a Glance:

• CZ called WSJ report a “hit piece” using misleading questions.

• WLFI says it met a crypto advisor in Pakistan—a personal connection, not political.

• No links to the US government or Trump administration, according to both parties.

CZ concluded that the WSJ is acting as a “mouthpiece” for anti-crypto elements in the U.S., pushing narratives that damage America’s position as a potential leader in the blockchain sector.