Chinese President Xi Jinping has sent his condolences to Norway’s new monarch, King Haakon VIII, following the death of King Harald V.
Xi expressed his sympathy to Norway’s royal family, government and people on behalf of China, according to Chinese state media.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang separately sent a message of condolence to Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Monday that King Harald had contributed significantly to relations between China and Norway.
Guo highlighted the late King’s multiple visits to China and said he had helped promote bilateral exchanges and cooperation.
King Harald and Queen Sonja made their most recent state visit to China in October 2018. During the visit, the King met Xi Jinping and attended events concerning trade, sustainability, research and maritime cooperation.
More than 300 Norwegian business representatives accompanied the royal couple, while Chinese and Norwegian organisations signed a series of cooperation agreements.
King Harald died on 28 August at the age of 89. He was immediately succeeded by his son, King Haakon VIII.
ScandAsia previously covered King Harald’s death and his connections with Asia.
Sources: Chinese Foreign Ministry, Xinhua
