King Harald taught us that Norway is a country built on trust, community and generosity. Over the years, I have been proud to represent abroad the Norway he stood for.

The nation knew the King as a generous and warm-hearted monarch. I knew him as a close and wise conversation partner, not least through my weekly audiences with him at the Royal Palace. I greatly valued the King’s wise reflections on the state of the world. I will miss them deeply.

Amid the grief, I also feel a profound sense of gratitude for a life devoted to Norway. My deepest sympathies go to Queen Sonja and the entire Royal Family.