Norway’s King Harald dies at 89 after 35-year reign

“It is with deep sadness that we announce that His Majesty King Harald passed away today. King Harald passed away peacefully at Oslo University Hospital on Friday, August 28 at 6.35am,” it said in a statement.

The flag at the royal palace in Oslo was lowered to half mast.

Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said he had received the news with “deep sorrow”.

“An entire nation mourns, and at the same time remains profoundly grateful for a long life devoted to Norway,” he said in a statement.

“King Harald loved Norway. And Norway loved its king.”