Norway mourns King Harald V, who died aged 89

Norway is in mourning following the death of King Harald V, who passed away peacefully on Friday morning at the age of 89. The Norwegian Royal Palace announced his death, marking the end of an era for the nation.

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An entire nation mourns and at the same time stands again in strong gratitude for a long life devoted to Norway.

Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre was among the first to receive the news and conveyed the nation's profound grief. "An entire nation mourns and at the same time stands again in strong gratitude for a long life devoted to Norway," Støre stated. He emphasized the King's unwavering faith in the Norwegian people, noting that Harald V helped Norwegians see the best in themselves and each other.

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Through more than three decades as king, Harald V showed unwavering faith in the Norwegian people. He helped us to see the best in ourselves - and in each other.

King Harald V, who ascended to the throne in 1991, reigned for over three decades. He was known for modernizing the monarchy and becoming a unifying figure for the country. His reign was characterized by a close connection to the people, and his passing leaves a significant void. The Speaker of the Storting, Masud Gharahkhani, also expressed the nation's sorrow, stating, "We have lost our beloved king, and the entire nation is in mourning." Gharahkhani highlighted that the King's service was marked by his closeness to the people and his unifying approach to his royal duties.

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We have lost our beloved king, and the entire nation is in mourning.