In Oslo, Their Majesties King Harald V and Queen Sonja of Norway hosted an incoming state visit from Their Majesties King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of the Belgians at the Royal Palace, marking the first state visit between the two kingdoms in nearly three decades.

The visit, which includes engagements in Oslo and Stavanger, is centered on cooperation in energy, defense, and broader multilateral priorities. Norway remains a key energy supplier to Belgium, and both countries maintain close coordination as NATO allies.

Their Majesties the King and Queen of the Belgians were formally welcomed at the Royal Palace with full state honours, including the playing of national anthems, an inspection of the King’s Guard of Honor, and the presentation of official delegations.

Once inside the Royal Palace, Their Majesties held a private meeting, described by the Royal Court as a “tête-à-tête,” ahead of the exchange of gifts.

Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway appeared during the indoor program at the Royal Palace, joining Their Majesties King Harald V and Queen Sonja and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Haakon of Norway for official photographs. Her attendance had not been listed in the official press release from the Royal Court of Norway.

The appearance comes days after an interview broadcast by NRK (Norsk rikskringkasting) that prompted widespread criticism in Norway, in which the Crown Princess addressed her past associations with Jeffrey Epstein.

Later in the day, Their Majesties the King and Queen of the Belgians, accompanied by the Crown Prince of Norway, laid a wreath at the National Monument at Akershus Fortress in tribute to those who lost their lives during the Second World War.

A state banquet hosted by Their Majesties the King and Queen of Norway is scheduled to take place at the Royal Palace this evening, bringing together members of the Belgian delegation and representatives of Norwegian public life.