Norway's Crown Prince Haakon Serves as Regent as King Harald Remains Hospitalized

King Harald, 89, Europe's oldest reigning head of state, remains hospitalized in Oslo with a bacterial infection and complications from anemia. Crown Prince Haakon, 53, has assumed the role of regent — stepping into the king's constitutional duties as head of state. He is handling ambassadorial audiences, council meetings, and military ceremonies. The palace said August 24 the king's condition was stable.