Norway’s new King, Haakon VIII, was sworn in before the Norwegian parliament on Tuesday, pledging to respect the country’s Constitution and laws.
Haakon became king after the death of his father, King Harald V, on August 28, at the age of 89. He has also chosen the royal motto “Everything for Norway”, which dates back to his great-grandfather, King Haakon VII.
During the ceremony at the Norwegian parliament, the Storting, Haakon swore to govern the Kingdom of Norway in accordance with the Constitution and its laws.
“I promise and swear that I will govern the Kingdom of Norway in accordance with the Constitution and its laws,” he declared during the ceremony.
Haakon, 53, became king immediately after his father’s death. There are no formal coronations in Norway, as the tradition was abolished in 1908. However, the new king may hold an enthronement ceremony at Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim later.
In his speech, Haakon expressed the hope that the good relations between the monarchy and parliament will continue during his reign and will develop in line with the challenges the country will face in the future.
The Norwegian monarchy has a largely symbolic role, with political power exercised by the elected government and parliament. However, the royal family continues to play an important role in representing and promoting Norway in the world.
The late King Harald V, who ruled Norway for 35 years, died on Friday. His state funeral is scheduled for September 9 in Oslo. /Telegraph/