Costa Rica’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship (MREC) has officially expressed its heartfelt condolences to the nation of Norway following the death of King Harald V. The monarch passed away on Friday at the age of 89, concluding a 35-year reign on the throne.
The news comes after King Harald V was hospitalized in Oslo on August 17 due to severe complications from hemolytic anemia, a chronic blood condition.
Official Statement from Casa Amarilla
In an official press release issued from Casa Amarilla, the seat of Costa Rica’s Foreign Ministry, officials highlighted the monarch’s steadfast dedication and extended solidarity to the Norwegian people.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship expresses its solidarity with the friendly nation of Norway during this period of national mourning. We express our sincere hopes that His Majesty’s legacy after 35 years on the throne will be remembered and remain a symbol of unity for his country.”
Despite facing significant health issues in his later years, King Harald V remained committed to his royal duties, consistently rejecting calls for abdication and serving as head of state until his death.
A Historic 35-Year Reign
Ascending to the throne in 1991 following the death of his father, King Olav V, Harald V went on to become the oldest ruling sovereign in Europe.
Throughout his 35-year tenure, his son, Crown Prince Haakon, regularly stepped in as regent to manage state affairs whenever health concerns required the King to take temporary leave. King Harald V’s enduring leadership and refusal to step down earned him widespread respect both within Norway and across the international community.
