Mette-Marit of Norway has made her official return to public life. On March 24th, she stepped back into her role as one of the royal family's key figures, attending Norway's first state visit of the year. It's a move that reaffirms her position as the country's future queen.
© Photonews via Getty ImagesKing Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium arrived in Oslo, where they were welcomed at the Royal Palace by King Harald V and Queen Sonja of Norway. This meeting was followed by an official audience with Mette-Marit in attendance, 56 days after she stepped back from her royal duties due to her health and the controversies that have been plaguing her and her family.
Her return comes days after an interview with NRK, where she addressed her past association with Jeffrey Epstein. While public opinion on her future as queen remains divided, the interview appears to have provided some reassurance to parts of the population. It also reinforced the support of her husband, Crown Prince Haakon of Norway, who made it clear that Mette-Marit remains an integral part of his life and the monarchy.
© Photonews via Getty ImagesThe Belgian royals’ visit began with a formal meeting at the palace square and will conclude with a gala dinner in their honor. Mette-Marit’s attendance at the evening event has not been officially confirmed, with her appearances being highly dependent on her health. In 2018, Mette-Marit was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, a disease that progresses every year and imposes limitations on her daily life.
Mette-Marit’s absence over the past eight weeks coincided with the legal proceedings involving her eldest son, Marius Borg Høiby, who faces multiple charges, including sexual assault and rape.
One clear winner following Mette-Marit and Haakon's interview
© NRKA recent poll published by Aftenposten shows that the country is divided when it comes to her role as the future queen. While that split reflects the nation's skepticism, it also suggests a possible path forward towards rebuilding trust.
Unlike her, Prince Haakon has around 80% public support, marking one of his strongest ratings in recent years. “In difficult times, it’s important to have a strong foundation to stand on together. This is our shared project. Mette is caring, wise, and incredibly strong. She will always be part of the team," he said to NRK, as translated by our sister website HOLA! Spain.
In the following days, Prince Haakon is expected to attend various engagements on his own, including appearances at the Nobel Peace Center, different business seminars, and an official meeting with Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. When it comes to Mette-Marit, all eyes remain on her, and whether her carefully orchestrated return will help restore confidence in the future of the Norwegian monarchy.
© LISE ASERUD
