“Today, I join the people of Norway and others around the world in mourning the passing of His Majesty King Harald V.

King Harald devoted his life to Norway. Forced into exile as a young child during the Second World War, he returned to Norway in 1945, became Crown Prince in 1957, and acceded to the throne in 1991. For over three decades, he served with a deep sense of duty and guided the monarchy through decades of change, balancing tradition with a more open and modern institution. In moments of national tragedy, he helped bring Norwegians together and remained a steady presence in the life of his country.

King Harald was also an accomplished athlete and yachtsman who, from 1964 to 1972, represented Norway at three consecutive Olympic Games and later became a world champion.

His Majesty shared a special connection with Canada. During his wartime exile, he visited Toronto and Little Norway – the training base for Norwegian soldiers in Canada. As King, he returned with Queen Sonja for a State Visit in 2002, visiting Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Nova Scotia. I had the privilege of meeting His Majesty last March in Oslo, and he spoke of the ties between our nations with great warmth and affection.

On behalf of the Government of Canada, I extend my deepest condolences to Queen Sonja, the Royal Family, and the people of Norway. Canada mourns with you.”