European leaders and royalty bid farewell to the King of Norway

European leaders and royal families have expressed their condolences following the death of Norway’s King Harald V, who passed away at the age of 90 in a hospital in Oslo. The news has deeply affected Norwegians, who regarded him as a beloved figure who ruled the country for the past 35 years. Numerous European and other world leaders, along with members of royal families, have publicly mourned his passing through statements and social media posts. King Harald V died in the 90th year of his life while receiving treatment in Oslo's hospital. His death has prompted widespread mourning, particularly among Norwegians, who cherished his leadership and personal connection to the nation. In response, several European monarchies and political figures have offered tributes highlighting his contributions and character. The Danish king, Frederik X, described King Harald as an exceptional person who took on the responsibilities of leadership with compassion and presence. He emphasized that the late king was a remarkable representative of his country, both as a leader and as a successful athlete. Similarly, the Swedish king, Carl XVI Gustaf, called Harald an outstanding leader and friend who united his nation. He noted that Harald gave everything for Norway, reflecting the deep respect he commanded. The Dutch royal family remembered their shared trips in Oslo and throughout Norway, expressing gratitude for the memories they held dear. They stated that King Harald was a special friend whose legacy will remain in their hearts. They praised his service to Norway with love, pride, and determination. Belgian royalty highlighted Harald’s humor, humanity, and sincerity, which made him an extraordinary individual. They noted that many generations of Norwegians grew up under his guidance, benefiting from the stability and security he provided. They commended his unwavering dedication, loyalty, and dignity in fulfilling his duties. The Spanish royal family recognized King Harald as a model of responsibility, dignity, simplicity, and steadfast devotion to his royal service. They conveyed their condolences and admiration, expressing their sorrow over the loss of such a respected figure. British King Charles III, who was Harald’s brother-in-law, extended his family’s condolences to the Norwegian monarchy. He acknowledged Harald’s popularity and friendship, noting how his kindness, empathy, and deep sense of duty resonated across the sea. A statement signed by Charles R accompanied this tribute. French President Emmanuel Macron recalled Harald’s efforts in strengthening ties between Norway and France, mentioning the warm reception he received during his visit to Oslo in June 2025. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy paid tribute to Harald’s embodiment of dignity, wisdom, and unwavering loyalty to his country, noting that Ukraine would always remember his support and solidarity during its darkest days against Russian aggression. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni honored the late king as a monarch who governed with autonomy and profound understanding of institutional duty, contributing to the strengthening of relations between Italy and Norway. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also expressed her condolences, stating that Harald served his country with warmth, humanity, and unyielding sense of duty. In addition, Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar conveyed sincere condolences to the Norwegian royal family and the people of Norway, representing the Slovenian people in this moment of deep sorrow. She expressed her heartfelt sympathy and wished the new Norwegian king, Haakon VIII, strength, wisdom, and a deep sense of duty toward the Norwegian people. King Harald had also maintained close ties with Slovenia, visiting the country in 2011 as part of a state visit. In 2019, he hosted then-Slovenian President Borut Pahor and Prime Minister Mira Cerar in Norway. These visits underscored the enduring diplomatic and personal connections between the two nations.