Norway’s new King Haakon has taken the oath in one of the first major moments of his reign, as the country mourns the death of his father, King Harald V.
The oath-taking marks a significant formal step for Haakon as he assumes the role of monarch. It took place against the backdrop of national mourning, with the late King Harald V lying in state at the Royal Palace.
Mourners have been paying their respects to Harald V at the palace, where his body is being presented for public tribute. The scene has brought together the transition to a new reign and the public farewell to the former king.
Harald V’s death has prompted a period of reflection around the Norwegian monarchy, while Haakon’s oath signals the beginning of his duties as the new king.
The latest known situation is that Harald V remains lying in state at the Royal Palace as mourners continue to pay tribute, while King Haakon has completed this initial formal step of his reign.
