Haakon VIII spoke for the first time as king. He spoke about family, grief and the future

The speech took place on 29 August, a day and a half after the death of King Harald V. Haakon VIII began by announcing that his father had died at 6:35 a.m., then thanked Norwegians for the support shown to the royal family. He mentioned the crowds at Palace Square. Flowers, messages and candles were left there by people bidding farewell to the late monarch.

Haakon VIII addressed his late father directly. He thanked him for being a good father to him and Princess Märtha Louise, and also remembered him as a grandfather, husband, father-in-law, brother and uncle. He spoke of his warmth and sense of humour. He also stressed that Harald V remained true to his values and duties and supported members of the family.<br /><br />The King also recalled his father’s public service. He mentioned his meetings with children and young people, his apology to the Sámi for the injustices they suffered, and his response to the attacks on Utøya and in the government quarter. He also spoke about Harald V’s travels and passion for sports. The speech also included a tribute to Queen Sonja, to whom the late monarch had been married for 58 years.

The new monarch then referred to his own role. He said that a major task awaited him after his father’s death, and that Harald V had reminded family members that everyone should find their own way of carrying out their duties. “Now it is my turn,” Haakon VIII stated. He also thanked Queen Mette-Marit, his children, mother and sister for their support.<br /><br />Haakon VIII also announced the new royal couple’s approach to fulfilling their duties. He said that he and Queen Mette-Marit wanted to be close to people and listen to them, while the Queen, Princess Ingrid Alexandra and he himself would strive to understand the different life situations of the country’s residents. He pointed to the importance of democracy, the rule of law and the equal worth of every person. He also confirmed that he would retain the motto “Alt for Norge,” meaning “Everything for Norway,” previously used by his father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

Haakon VIII concluded his first address as monarch with words referring to his future service to the state. He asked for God’s <span class="highlight id_70566">help</span> and for Norwegians’ support in carrying out his new duties. At the end, he repeated the traditional wish: “May God preserve our country.”