Norway's new king Haakon VIII honors late father King Harald

King Haakon VIII praised his predecessor, King Harald, for representing Norway “with pride and joy” as he assumed the throne, and pledged to govern by listening closely to the Norwegian people. The new monarch made the remarks during his inaugural address to the nation, emphasizing continuity and a commitment to public dialogue as central themes of his reign.

The statement follows the recent abdication ceremony in Oslo, where King Harald formally transferred his duties to his son. Haakon VIII outlined plans to maintain Norway’s constitutional traditions while engaging with citizens across the country, signalling an intent to balance ceremonial responsibilities with responsive leadership. The transition marks the latest chapter in Norway’s stable parliamentary monarchy.