The council opens a book of condolences for King Harald

Longyearbyen lokalstyre (the local council) said it has received the news of the death of His Majesty King Harald with great sorrow. His passing is being marked in Longyearbyen.

There will be an opportunity to express sympathy and respect after the loss of King Harald.

The local council has received the sad news that King Harald V has died.

The local council invites all residents to write a greeting to King Harald. The book of condolences will be available at the library.

There will also be an opportunity to lay flowers at the mine bus on the square for those who wish to mark their participation in this way.

Svalbard Church will be open to those who wish.

Statement from local council leader Terje Aunevik

"We have received the news of King Harald's death with great sorrow. On behalf of Longyearbyen lokalstyre I wish to express our deepest sympathy with Queen Sonja and the whole Royal Family," said Terje Aunevik, leader of the local council (translated).

"King Harald visited Svalbard over many decades, from when he was crown prince until his last visit to Longyearbyen last year. Many here will remember his warm curiosity and sincere interest in the people and our community," said Aunevik.

Aunevik said that when the King stood on the square in Longyearbyen during his last visit, he ended his speech with the words:

"For Svalbard is an important part of Norway, and thus important to us all," said King Harald.

"Today I will borrow his own words and say: King Harald is an important part of Norway, and thus important to us all," said Aunevik.