World · Malaysia Bureau
Prince William to represent King Charles at Norway's King Harald funeral
The Prince of Wales will attend the state funeral of Norway's late King Harald on 25 May, serving as the British monarch's representative. The arrangement follows longstanding protocol under which reigning British monarchs typically delegate such international ceremonies to senior family members.
LSN Malaysia ·
Prince William will travel to Oslo to pay respects at the funeral of King Harald V, who passed away on 10 January at the age of 88 after reigning for 52 years. The Prince of Wales' attendance underscores the close ties between the British and Norwegian royal families, with both houses maintaining longstanding diplomatic and familial connections across Northern Europe.
Under established royal protocol, the reigning British monarch traditionally does not attend the funerals of other heads of state, instead dispatching a senior member of the royal family to represent the Crown. This practice reflects diplomatic conventions designed to ensure continuity of governance and the stability of the monarchy at home during periods of international state mourning.
King Harald's passing marked the end of an era for Norway, with the late king having guided the nation through decades of significant social and economic change. His son, Crown Prince Haakon, has assumed the throne as King Haakon VII. The state funeral is expected to draw dignitaries and representatives from royal houses and governments across Europe and beyond, highlighting the deceased monarch's prominent role in European affairs.