King Harald of Norway has said there is ”nothing to fear” about the future of his country’s monarchy as it goes through of its toughest patches.
Speaking to reporters after a difficult few days, Norway’s king also confirmed that his daughter in law, Crown Princess Mette-Marit, was seriously ill.
The remarks came as he addressed health concerns about another member of his family. His wife, Queen Sonja, was taken to hospital on May 27 with heart issues with the royal court saying she would need several days of treatment.
However, on May 28, Harald V revealed that his wife of 57 years was on her way back home. He told reporters that ”her form is much better” and added that her spirits had lifted, noting ”it wasn’t good…she was a little depressed” as she couldn’t carry out her engagements.
It was his remarks about Crown Princess Mette-Marit that caused most alarm though. A few days ago, Crown Prince Haakon said his wife was very unwell and needed oxygen most days. The Crown Princess has pulmonary fibrosis, diagnosed in 2018, and her health has deteriorated in recent months. On Norway’s National Day, earlier in May, she was seen with an oxyygen tube.
Now, as May comes to an end, King Harald revealed her condition was worsening. He said ”we have heard doctors say this is going to happen but we thought…it would happen in a while, not now. But now, it is suddenly very real. She is seriously ill. There is no doubt about it, unfortunately.”
And King Harald was asked about the future of the monarchy – first in line is Crown Prince Haakon, 52, followed by his eldest child, 22 year old Princess Ingrid Alexandra who is currently studying in Australia.
He said that ”with my successor, and also with Princess Ingrid Alexandra, you have nothing to fear.”
Norway’s monarchy has been hugely popular under King Harald who, at one point, had approval ratings of over 90%. But a series of problems, including the mention of Crown Princess Mette-Marit in the Epstein files, have led to dissatisfaction. An interview that she gave about her friendship with Jeffrey Epstein wasn’t received well.
Addressing her links to the convicted sex offender, King Harald said ”I found out about it when you found out about it. And I don’t know anything more than you know.”
He also defended his daughter in law, saying ”we must remember that the Crown Princess has not done anything illegal….and she broke this connection. Unlike some others in Norway, she broke the connection very early so I think we should give her credit for that.”
Inevitably, King Harald was asked about whether the Norwegian monarchy would survive. In response to a question about whether the crown will be abolished one day, he said ”then I’m not here anymore, that’s for sure”.
