Gala Dinner at the Palace for Belgian State Visit
Photo: The Norwegian Royal House / NRK
The Royal Couple hosted a gala dinner at the Palace in connection with the state visit from Belgium. 184 guests were invited. King Harald noted in his speech that Crown Princess Mette-Marit was unable to attend due to her health.
On Tuesday evening, the Royal Couple hosted a gala dinner at the Royal Palace in connection with the state visit of Belgium's King Philippe and Queen Mathilde. 184 guests were invited to dinner in the Great Hall.
The dinner opened with a procession into the Great Hall. The two royal couples led the way, followed by Crown Prince Haakon, who entered alone.
Crown Prince Haakon alone in the procession into the Great Hall. Photo: NRK
In his opening speech, King Harald commented that Crown Princess Mette-Marit was not present at the dinner. The King referred to her as "our dear" Crown Princess, and said she would have liked to attend.
"Unfortunately, she is unable to participate due to her health situation," King Harald said.
The Crown Princess's absence from the gala dinner came after she had earlier in the day participated in the audience for the Belgian Royal Couple, official photography and the exchange of gifts inside the Palace. Her official programme is continuously adapted to her health condition.