A Royal Farewell
King Harald V of Norway has died at the age of 89. The Norwegian royal court confirmed that the monarch passed away on Friday, August 28, at 6:35 a.m. local time at the Rikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital.
The King had been receiving medical care since August 17, following a diagnosis of a bacterial blood infection. His passing occurred just one day after the palace issued a somber update, noting that the monarch's health had deteriorated and had become extremely critical. King Harald ascended to the throne in 1991, succeeding his father, King Olav V, and served his nation for 35 years.
Tributes from Global Leaders
The news of his death prompted an outpouring of grief from leaders around the world. King Charles III of the United Kingdom released a statement expressing his deep sorrow over the loss of his cousin.
«For 35 years, King Harald served his people with unwavering dedication, guiding Norway through times of great change with warmth and humility. As Norway mourns the loss of so towering a figure, my whole family join in remembering a much-loved kinsman and friend whose kindness, compassion and deep sense of duty echoed from across the sea and across the decades,» King Charles III remarked.
A Nation in Mourning
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre shared a heartfelt statement regarding the impact of the late King on the Norwegian people. He highlighted how King Harald remained a steady presence through both times of national tragedy and celebration.
«For more than three decades as monarch, Harald V demonstrated an unwavering faith in the Norwegian people. He helped us to see the best in ourselves — and in one another,» Støre stated. He further noted that the King played a vital role in national unity, notably providing comfort to the country following the tragic attacks on July 22, 2011. «King Harald had a profound love for Norway. And Norway had a profound love for King Harald,» the Prime Minister concluded.