The two-day summit ‘Discourse by the Shore: Tourism Architecture Summit 2025’ has commenced for the first time in the coastal city of Cox’s Bazar.
The event kicked off on Friday (July 11) at the eco-friendly Mermaid Beach Resort, located on the scenic Patchar Dwip along the Cox’s Bazar–Teknaf Marine Drive.
The summit focuses on eco-tourism and climate-resilient tourism development.
On the opening day, renowned architect Marina Tabassum said that the nature of Cox’s Bazar—already under threat from climate change—is being steadily degraded, while no new, meaningful experiences are being created for tourists.
She also highlighted the growing global relevance of eco-tourism in the era of climate change and emphasized the vital role Mermaid Beach Resort plays in promoting sustainable and cohesive tourism.
“Eco-tourism is a model of tourism that ensures environmental protection, conservation of natural and cultural heritage, and the social and economic empowerment of local communities,” she added.
Organizers of the summit stated that architects working on coastal, cultural, and sustainable themes are participating in the event.
They aim to reframe the role of architecture in tourism-centric development. As a region still evolving, Cox’s Bazar stands to benefit significantly from such discussions on sustainable growth.
The summit opened with a panel discussion featuring architects Khondaker Hasibul Kabir and Ehsan Khan, among others.
In the afternoon, seven architects are scheduled to present their ideas, followed by a guided sunset meditation session, where participants engage in nature-inspired design exercises.
On the second day, ten more architects will present across two sessions.
The summit will conclude with an open floor panel discussion, moderated by Mahmudul Anwar Riyaad and Nahas Ahmed Khalil, and a closing reflection by Marina Tabassum, summarizing the outcomes and insights of the summit.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Mohammad Morshed
