Norway’s King Harald in "extremely serious" condition, palace says

Norway’s 89-year-old King Harald is in an “extremely serious” condition after his health deteriorated while he was being treated in hospital for a blood disorder, the Royal Palace said on August 27.

“His Majesty the King’s health condition is extremely serious,” the palace said in a statement, without providing further details.

Harald has been receiving treatment at Oslo University Hospital since August 17 for haemolytic anaemia, a condition in which red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be replaced.

Queen Sonja and Crown Prince Haakon, who is serving as regent while his father is ill, have canceled all scheduled royal engagements. Norwegian media reported that members of the royal family were at the king’s bedside.

The monarch was admitted to hospital after developing fluid retention linked to cortisone treatment. He has faced a series of health problems in recent years and has previously undergone surgery to have a pacemaker fitted.

Harald has reigned since 1991 and has gradually reduced his official duties because of his health. Despite this, he has repeatedly ruled out abdication, saying the oath he took before Norway’s parliament was for life.

By Vafa Guliyeva