In Memory of His Majesty King Harald

It is with great sadness that we have received the news of the death of His Majesty King Harald. His passing will be commemorated in Longyearbyen.

There will be an opportunity to express condolences and respect following the loss of King Harald.

The Longyearbyen Local Council has received the sad news that King Harald V has passed away.

The Longyearbyen Local Council invites all residents to write a message to King Harald. A book of condolences will be available at the library.

There will also be an opportunity to lay flowers by the mine bus in the town square for those who wish to express their condolences in this way.

Svalbard Church will be open to those who wish to visit.

Statement from Local Council Chair Terje Aunevik

It is with great sadness that we have received the news of King Harald’s passing. On behalf of the Longyearbyen Local Council, I would like to express our deepest condolences to Queen Sonja and the entire Royal Family.

King Harald visited Svalbard over many decades, from the time he was Crown Prince until his last visit to Longyearbyen last year. Many here will remember his warm curiosity and sincere interest in our people and our community.

When he stood in the town square in Longyearbyen during his last visit, he concluded his speech with the words:

“For Svalbard is an important part of Norway, and thus important to all of us.”

Today, I would like to borrow his own words and say: King Harald is an important part of Norway—and therefore important to all of us.