The Security Council expressed concern at the continuing fragile security situation in the Mano River region, especially the civil war in Liberia and its consequences on nearby states including Côte d'Ivoire and the humanitarian situation. It recognised the situation in Sierra Leone and the need to strengthen the Sierra Leone Police in order to maintain security and stability. Furthermore, it was important that there was government authority throughout the country, particularly the diamond fields, reintegration of ex-combatants, respect for human rights and rule of law and the return of refugees and internally displaced persons.