Arabic version: هاكون الثامن يصبح ملك النرويج بعد وفاة هارالد

According to ABC News, Crown Prince Haakon has become King Haakon VIII following the death of his father, Harald V, at Oslo University Hospital on Friday. Harald was 89, and had battled chronic health issues for almost two decades.

Haakon, 53, is the fourth king since Norway gained independence from Sweden in 1905. He has adopted the motto “All for Norway”, which dates back to his great-grandfather. His wife is now Queen Mette-Marit, while his oldest child, Ingrid Alexandra, becomes Crown Princess and heir to the throne.

Norway’s monarch has a largely symbolic role, with power held by an elected parliament, but the royal family also promotes the country internationally. Haakon had increasingly stepped in as his father’s health declined.

The new king faces the task of rebuilding public support for the monarchy after recent reputational damage connected to Mette-Marit’s past contacts with deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and the rape conviction of her son, Marius Borg Høiby. Mette-Marit has apologised for the association and is not accused of wrongdoing.

Tributes followed Harald’s death. Britain’s King Charles called him a “much-loved kinsman and friend” who ruled for 35 years with “warmth and humility”. Pope Leo praised Harald’s “devoted service”, while footballer Erling Haaland thanked the late king for what he meant to Norway.