King Carl XVI Gustaf is mourning a heartbreaking loss.
Taking to the official Instagram handle of the Swedish Royal Family on Friday, August 28, the King of Sweden released an emotional statement, expressing “great sadness” on the death of Norwegian monarch, King Harald V.
“It is with great sadness that my family and I have received the news that our dear friend, King Harald, has passed away,” he began.
The 80-year-old monarch reflected on Harald’s challenging journey of life by writing, “King Harald's life story is exceptional; after the hardships of childhood with war and exile, he was able to return to a free Norway with his family and follow the country's fantastic development during the 20th century, and then succeed his father as King of Norway.”
“Both as a head of state and a successful athlete, King Harald was an outstanding representative of his country. He gave "everything for Norway". Throughout the years, the King has been a good friend to me, my family and to Sweden. King Harald is now being mourned by many in our country,” Carl noted.
He concluded the statement, penning, “Today, my family and I offer our deepest condolences to Queen Sonja. I wish my dear godson Haakon, who now succeeds his father as King of Norway, all the best and success in his future work for our brotherly country and people. CARL GUSTAF.”
King Harald V death
On Friday, August 28, the Royal Palace in Oslo announced a heartbreaking news, sharing that King Harald V passed away peacefully at 6:35 a.m. local time at the National Hospital in Oslo.
It was previously reported that all members of the Norwegian Royal Family were gathered at Oslo University Hospital, after cancelling all engagements as the monarch's health had further deteriorated.
His son Prince Haakon, daughter-in-law Princess Mette-Marit and mother Queen Sonja besides other members of the Royal Family were said to be by Harald V's bedside after confirming that he was in an "extremely serious" condition.
