Haakon VIII becomes king of Norway after father Harald V’s death

Norway has a new monarch. According to People’s Gazette, Crown Prince Haakon formally became King Haakon VIII on Friday, following the death of his father, King Harald V, at age 89. Harald died peacefully at Oslo University Hospital after treatment for a blood infection and anaemia.

At a Council of State session, the new king pledged to retain the royal motto “Alt for Norge.” Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store offered condolences on behalf of the nation. Haakon’s daughter, Ingrid Alexandra, is now crown princess and heir to the throne.