 The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, IOC/UNESCO, is an organization founded by UNESCO founded in 1961 whose main function is to promote and coordinate the study of oceanography throughout the world.In 1968, cooperative investigations of the Caribbean Sea and adjacent regions were initiated with the participation of 18 countries with interest in the area, carrying out physical, chemical, geological and biological oceanography and fisheries work.In compliance with IOC/UNESCO Resolution V-5, and by appointment of President Raul Leoni, the first Venezuelan representation to the International Coordination Group for Cooperative Investigations in the Caribbean Sea and Adjacent Regions (CICAR) was designated in 1968.