King Haakon VIII Pays Emotional Tribute to Late Father in First National Address
OSLO, September 1, 2026 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) — King Haakon VIII paid an emotional tribute to his late father, King Harald V, in his first address to the Norwegian nation following his accession to the throne.
Speaking as Norway continued to mourn its long-serving monarch, King Haakon thanked the thousands of people who gathered outside the Royal Palace in Oslo, where flowers, candles and messages were placed in King Harald’s memory.
The new king remembered his father as a warm and reassuring parent to him and his sister, Princess Märtha Louise, as well as a devoted husband, grandfather and head of the royal family.
“I will miss his laugh,” King Haakon said as he recalled his father’s warmth, humour and ability to make people feel comfortable. He described King Harald as a respectful and generous listener who had a special connection with children and young people.
King Haakon also reflected on his father’s role in bringing Norwegians together. He recalled King Harald’s apology to the Indigenous Sámi people for historic injustices and his response to the victims of the Utøya terror attack.
Personal memories included King Harald’s passion for sailing and a visit to the Amazon, where he fulfilled a childhood ambition to spend time with the Yanomami people, reflecting his concern for nature and wildlife.
The address also honoured Queen Sonja’s central role in King Harald’s life and reign. The couple would have marked their 58th wedding anniversary shortly after his death.
Turning to his own responsibilities, King Haakon acknowledged the scale of the task ahead and recalled his father’s advice that every monarch must find an individual way to serve.
“Now it is my turn,” he said, pledging to uphold Norway’s democratic values, promote unity and serve all Norwegians under the royal motto “All for Norway.”
King Harald V died peacefully at Oslo University Hospital on August 28 at the age of 89. He had reigned since 1991 and remained committed to his constitutional duties throughout his life despite experiencing several health difficulties in recent years.
Source: Town & Country; information verified against the Royal House of Norway
