European leaders and royal families have paid tribute to Norway’s King Harald V, Europe’s oldest reigning monarch, who died on Friday aged 89 after more than three decades on the throne.
Harald died peacefully at 6:35 am (0435 GMT) at Oslo University Hospital, according to the Norwegian Royal Court.
His son, who had kept vigil at his bedside along with other family members, inherits the throne and will be known as Haakon VIII, the Royal Court said.
The first messages of condolence came in from Harald’s Scandinavian neighbours.
“King Harald’s life story is exceptional,” said Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf. “Throughout the years, King Harald has been a good friend to me, my family and to Sweden.”
Denmark’s King Frederik X and Queen Mary published a letter to the new King Haakon: “Dear Haakon, It is with great sorrow that we have learned of the death of your father, His Majesty King Harald … Your father meant a great deal to my mother and both of us. With his warm and dry sense of humour and unwavering calm, Uncle Harald made others feel comfortable and at ease in his presence. He was an extraordinary man, with a twinkle in his eyes and a big heart.”
Other royal families also shared their condolences.
Britain’s King Charles III paid tribute to his “dear cousin,” saying: “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.”
Belgium’s King Philippe and Queen Mathilde wrote: “As Europe’s longest-serving monarch, he was above all a king who remained very close to his people. His humour, his humanity and his sincerity made him an extraordinary and particularly endearing personality who was held in the highest esteem.”
King Willem-Alexander, Queen Máxima and Princess Beatrix of the Netherlands said they were “deeply saddened to hear of the passing of His Majesty King Harald V of Norway.”
“We will always carry the memory of our special friendship with him in our hearts.”
Messages from the world of politics
“A whole nation is in mourning and the people of Norway are left with a deep sense of gratitude for a long life in the service of Norway,” said Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. “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.”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen posted on X: “For more than three decades, he served his country with warmth, humility and an unwavering sense of duty. In moments of joy and sorrow, he brought Norwegians together. He was a true European and a lifelong servant of his people.”
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier wrote to Haakon: “Greatest gratitude is owed to your father for the fact that, under his reign, the ties between our two countries were further strengthened after the wounds of World War II. Germany loses a great friend with your father. Europe loses a great reconciler.”
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said: “Norway loses a great figure who stood for composure and unity. In these days of mourning, I wish the royal family and the Norwegian people great strength.”
The head of the Western defence alliance NATO, Mark Rutte, also paid tribute: “During his 35 years on the throne and beyond, he showed himself to be a dedicated leader. His own military roots made him a champion of the Norwegian military and a long-time friend of NATO.”
Pope Leo XIV sent a telegram to offer his condolences to King Haakon. The pontiff said he was saddened to learn of the death of King Harald and sent “heartfelt condolences” to the new king, the members of the royal family and all the people of Norway.
“Mindful of his many years of devoted service to the realm, which I hope will continue to bear fruit,” Pope Leo said, “I offer the assurance of my prayers for the eternal rest of the late King.”
Mourners flock to the Palace Square with candles and flowers after it was announced that King Harald had died on Friday morning. (is associated with: «European leaders pay tribute to Norway’s King Harald») Thomas Andersen/NTB/dpa
Mourners are flocking to Palace Square. King Harald V of Norway has died at the age of 89, according to a statement from the Norwegian Royal House. (is associated with: «European leaders pay tribute to Norway’s King Harald») Lise Åserud/NTB/dpa
FILE PHOTO – King Harald visits Flesberg and Lampeland. King Harald V of Norway has died aged 89. (is associated with: «European leaders pay tribute to Norway’s King Harald») Terje Pedersen/NTB/dpa
FILE PHOTO – King Harald V of Norway is pictured after the official opening of the sailing 8mR World Cup 2018. (is associated with: «European leaders pay tribute to Norway’s King Harald») Felix Kästle/dpa
FILE PHOTO – King Harald V of Norway delivers his New Year’s address at the palace in the Norwegian capital. King Harald V of Norway has died at the age of 89, according to a statement from the Norwegian Royal House. (is associated with: «European leaders pay tribute to Norway’s King Harald») Haakon Mosvold Larsen/NTB/dpa