President William Ruto has sent a message of condolence to Norway following the death of 89-year-old King Harald V, who died on Friday after more than 35 years on the throne.

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In a statement issued on Saturday, August 29, Ruto conveyed Kenya’s sympathies to Queen Sonja, the Norwegian royal family, government and citizens following the monarch’s death.

“As Norway mourns and enters a new chapter in its national history, Kenya stands with the Royal Family, Government and people of Norway. We mourn an exceptional Monarch while celebrating a remarkable life of service and an enduring legacy of dignity, unity and humanity,” he wrote.

The President said Kenya would continue strengthening its ties with Norway as the country enters a new era under King Haakon, the late King’s son and successor.

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“His Majesty King Harald V has departed, but the values he embodied and the nation he helped shape will endure. Kenya will honour his memory by continuing to nurture the friendship between our peoples and deepen the partnership between our two nations,” he added.

King Harald was just three years old when Nazi Germany invaded Norway during World War II, forcing his family into exile before they returned after the war.

He ascended the throne in 1991 and was widely regarded by Norwegians as a beloved and unifying monarch, earning the reputation of the “People’s King” for his close connection with the public.

Ruto reflected on King Harald’s death coming less than three months after his historic official visit to Norway in June, which the Norwegian Royal Court confirmed was the first visit by a sitting Kenyan president to the country .

During the trip, Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto were received by then-Crown Prince Haakon at the Royal Palace for an audience and official lunch.

In his message, Ruto said he retained fond memories of the reception and engagements with Norway’s leadership during the visit.

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke