“Cox’s Bazar Dialogue: Illuminating Possibilities Through Rational Discourse” was held at Dhaka University on November 23.
In his speech as chief guest, AF Hasan Arif, advisor to the Government of Bangladesh on land, civil aviation, and tourism, said the Rohingya crisis has been a critical contributor to Cox’s Bazar’s economic challenges.
Speaking at a seminar, he emphasized, “Tourism must not come at the expense of nature. Sustainable tourism is not about destroying the environment but preserving it. We must also safeguard local culture and traditions. The development of Cox’s Bazar should engage the local community, leveraging their capabilities so that every resident becomes a stakeholder in progress.”
The seminar, organized by the Cox’s Bazar Community Alliance for Development (CCAD), focused on the sustainable development of Cox’s Bazar.
Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan inaugurated the event, and special guests included Mohammad Muslim Chowdhury, Chairman of Sonali Bank PLC, and historian Altaf Parvez.
AF Hasan Arif also lauded the initiative to prioritize local capabilities for sustainable development.
“This dialogue has brought forward critical issues such as tourism, the fishing industry, geographical significance, infrastructural development, resolving the Rohingya crisis, and effective policymaking. Such efforts pave the way for meaningful change,” he added.
The day-long event brought together professionals and university students from Cox’s Bazar who reside in Dhaka. Organizers expressed optimism that the dialogue would open new horizons for the region’s sustainable development.
Mohibbul Moktadir Tanim, the convener of the dialogue, remarked, “This platform will inspire dreams, guide plans, and unlock pathways to untapped possibilities.”
By Abdur Rashid Manik
