Harald V. fell ill with an infection during a private trip to Malaysia at the end of February. Back in Norway, he had a permanent pacemaker inserted in March. After his release from the hospital, he initially did not attend any public appointments. His return to office was postponed several times. According to the official palace program, the King will receive the Chief of General Staff of the Norwegian Army and two other high-ranking officers for an audience on Monday.
Oldest monarch in Europe
Harald V is the oldest ruling monarch in Europe. The Norwegian head of state walks with crutches and has repeatedly struggled with health problems in recent years. He has already had heart surgery and suffered from repeated respiratory infections. In such cases he is represented by his son, the 50-year-old Crown Prince Haakon. However, he rejected speculation regarding an abdication in January.
