Norway's new king remembers 'my dear father' in first speech
King Haakon VIII of Norway has delivered his first televised address following the death of his father, King Harald V. He paid an emotional tribute to his father's legacy and emphasized his commitment to national unity and the values of law and justice.
Why it matters
This marks a significant transition in the Norwegian monarchy, signaling the start of a new reign following the death of a long-serving and popular monarch.
Figure caption, King Haakon paid an emotional tribute to his parents on what would have been their wedding anniversary
King Haakon VIII of Norway has paid warm tribute to his late father, Harald V, in his first speech to the nation since taking the throne.
"Thank you for being such a good dad," he said in an at-times emotional televised address, seated at a desk in Norway's royal palace, beside a picture of the late king, two lit candles and a bowl of white roses.
Harald, 89, who was seen as a moderniser and "people's king" during his 35-year reign, died in hospital on Friday morning after being treated for a rare blood condition.
"Now it is my turn," his 53-year-old son said, adding that a "major task" awaited him and that he wished to be "present and attentive" going forward.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in