King Philippe & Queen Mathilde are on a state visit to Norway from 24 March 2026 to 26 March 2026.
The state visit comes at a peculiar time in the history of the Norwegian monarchy. The past months Crown Princess Mette-Marit and her son from a previous relationship have been under heavy scrutiny and criticism. While the crown princess's special friendship with Jeffrey Epstein and her discontent about royal life were exposed in hundreds of emails, her son Marius Borg Højby is currently standing trial for multiple cases of rape, drug use and violence against women. He faces up to seven years in jail. Both Crown Prince Haakon and his daughter, Princess Ingrid have publicly taken Marius Borg's side without mentioning his victims.
In a statement the Norwegian Royal House has announced Mette-Marit won't be taking part in the state visit because of the worsening state of her health. The crown princess is suffering from lung fibrosis and may be in need of a lung transplant.
Also Princess Astrid (92), King Harald's sister, is absent from the visit. She's recovering from a minor illness.
Tuesday 24 March 2026Departure from Melsbroek airport.
Arrival in Oslo.
Official welcoming ceremony at the Palace Square.
In a surprise announcement it was made clear that Mette-Marit would be present for the official welcome after all.
Wreath-laying ceremony at the National Monument, Akershus Fortress.
Meeting with the President of the Storting.
The King and Queen visited the Gol Stave Church. Built around 1200, it was moved from its original site to Oslo in the 19th century to ensure its preservation. Its unique Scandinavian architecture, blending Christian symbols with Viking motifs, beautifully showcases Norway’s cultural heritage.
Gala dinner at the Royal Palace.
Mathilde's loyal private secretary, Machteld Fostier.
Philippe: "Even living far away, I feel closely attached to your family and wish you to know that we are with you in good, and in challenging times."
"Roald Amundsen still inspires our young generations. The Antarctic expedition of Adrien de Gerlache at the end of the 19th century, has become legendary in Belgian history. Amundsen played an essential role in the success of the Belgica. This is a real example of partnership between Norwegians and Belgians."
Wednesday 25 March 2026
Event at the Nobel Peace Center to highlight Belgium and Norway’s shared commitment to international law and humanitarian principles. The King, the Queen and Crown Prince Haakon engaged with experts on enhancing the protection of civilians in armed conflicts.
Round table at the Oslo opera house.
Visit to ‘Norse Wind’, an impressive offshore wind turbine installation vessel that has been acquired by Deme. The Norse Wind perfectly illustrates how Belgium and Norway are joining forces to turn the North Sea into a powerhouse for the energy transition.
Meeting with the Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.
Government lunch at Akershus.
Event on childhood and literacy at the Deichman Bjorvika library, to promote literacy and the joy of reading among young people.
Reception hosted by the Belgian Royals at the National Museum in Oslo.
Thursday 26 March 2026
Crown Prince Haakon will accompany the Belgian Royals during their day visit to Stavanger.
Event on energy security at the Norwegian Petroleum Museum.
Luncheon hosted by the Mayor of Stavanger.
Program on defense cooperation at the Sola Air Station.
.jpg)
Geen opmerkingen:
Een reactie posten