08/30/2026
The translation of King Haakon VIII’s speech.
In his first address as monarch this evening, King Haakon VIII of Norway had a special message for his mother, Queen Sonja.
During the speech, the King touched on the partnership between his parents, who served as Norway's King and Queen for 35 years.
King Harald sadly died the day before the couple's 58th Wedding Anniversary.
King Haakon said:
"It was also a great strength for him to have my mother, Queen Sonja, as a life partner to share the work with.
She contributed to their becoming a strong royal couple who complemented each other well.
I know how much she meant to King Harald for standing so firmly in his life's work; in the life's work they shared.
Today marks 58 years since they got married. Congratulations on your wedding anniversary, dear mamma."
King Haakon's voice broke as he spoke to his mother through the speech.
Elsewhere in the speech, he paid tribute to his father, speaking about his warm personality, his commitment to his duty, and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. He also spoke about the task he now faces walking in his father's footsteps, and pledged that he, Queen Mette-Marit and Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra would continue to faithfully serve the Norwegian people.
