The Indian Ocean Tuna Commission held its first session in Rome, Italy, from 3 to 6 December 1996.  The Commission adopted Rules I to III, VI and X of its Rules of Procedure and deferred decision on the other Rules (see Second Session of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission for final draft of Rules).

The Commission decided to establish a Scientific Committee pursuant to Article XII.I of the Agreement and assigned functions, composition, operation as well as financial responsibilities.  The Commission decided that it was premature to create sub-commissions.

Seychelles was selected to host the Secretariat of the Commission after voting by secret ballot.

The Commission decided to defer decisions on the following matters to the First Special Session scheduled to be held from 24 to 26 March 1997:

• final adoption of the Rules of Procedure;
• adoption of the Financial Regulations;
• adoption of the Budget of the Commission;
• adoption of the scheme and scale of contribution;
• appointment of the Secretary of the Commission;
• relationship with other bodies;
• election of Officers for the biennium;
• Kyoto Declaration and Plan of Action from the International Conference on Sustainable Contribution of Fisheries to Food Security.