In the preamble of the resolution, the holding of general elections in May 2002, the launch of the Special Court for Sierra Leone and Truth and Reconciliation Commission and progress made in developing the capacity of the Sierra Leone Police and armed forces was welcomed by the Council. It noted the fragile situation in the Mano River region, particularly the conflict in neighbouring Liberia and the humanitarian implications. The importance of the extension of state authority in Sierra Leone including the diamond fields, the reintegration of ex-combatants, the return of refugees and internally displaced persons, and full respect for human rights and rule of law was stressed.