The Norwegian Royal Family are cancelling or postponing all official engagements until Easter due to the threat of coronavirus, following advice and safety measures from authorities.

Meetings, including those with ministers, as part of the King’s constitutional role, will continue in the meantime.

King Harald made the following statement on Thursday, 12 March 2020:

Our country is in a serious situation that affects individuals and society as a whole. It is crucial that we all participate in the national quest to avoid exposing ourselves or others to infection. It is therefore important that we all follow recommendations and orders from the authorities. 

We have to contribute what we can to prevent the spread of the virus, and I especially want to thank health professionals all over the country who are currently doing their utmost to remedy the situation. We all hope that developments will soon turn around.

Both King Harald and Queen Sonja celebrate their 83rd birthdays in 2020, as their age would a concern, especially when older people are more prone to catching the COVID-19 virus.

Meanwhile, King Harald’s cousin, Queen Elizabeth II, is said she will ‘keep calm and carry on’ despite the coronavirus threat.