Britain’s King Charles III, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen have expressed grief over the death of Norway’s King Harald V, praising his more than three decades of service to the Norwegian people.

King Harald died on Friday at the age of 89, bringing to a close a reign that began in 1991 following the death of his father, King Olav V. His 53-year-old son, Crown Prince Haakon, automatically succeeded him as king.

Charles described Harald as his “dear cousin” and praised him as a towering figure who led Norway through significant periods of change with dedication, warmth and humility.

The British monarch said his family would remember Harald not only as a relative but also as a close friend whose compassion and strong sense of duty defined his public life.

Charles also pointed to the longstanding relationship between Britain and Norway, noting that Britain was among the first countries to recognise Norwegian independence and establish diplomatic relations with Norway in 1905.

He said the relationship between both countries was further strengthened during the Second World War, creating enduring ties between their peoples.

Rutte, in his tribute, described Harald as a dedicated leader and highlighted his military background and longstanding relationship with NATO.

According to the NATO chief, Harald’s military roots made him a strong supporter of the Norwegian armed forces and a longstanding friend of the alliance.

Von der Leyen also praised the late monarch, describing him as a European who served Norway with warmth, humility and an unwavering commitment to duty.

Harald’s death marks the end of one of Europe’s longest modern royal reigns. During his more than 35 years on the throne, he became a widely respected and unifying figure in Norwegian public life.