Norway’s new king pays tribute to his late father as the country mourns
Norway's new King Haakon VIII delivered his first speech as monarch following the death of his father, King Harald, on Friday at age 89. King Haakon VIII honored his father's legacy, stating King Harald represented Norway with "pride and joy" both domestically and internationally. He also promised to dedicate himself to the country and listen to its people. The nation is in mourning, with tens of thousands gathering at the royal palace in Oslo to pay their respects. A national mourning period has been declared by the government, and memorial services are being held across Norway. King Haakon VIII, along with Queen Mette-Marit and Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra, pledged their presence and attentiveness to the Norwegian people.