King speaks about death of his son-in-law: 'It will take time to move on'

The king of Norway has spoken publicly about the death of his former son-in-law, who passed away on Christmas Day.

Ari Behn was married to King Harald's daughter, Princess Märtha Louise, for 15 years before their divorce in 2017.

The author took his own life on December 25 last year, aged 47, leaving behind three young daughters Maud Angelica, 16, Leah Isador, 13, and Emma Tallulah, 11.

Behn's funeral was held on January 3 at Oslo Cathedral and was attended by the Norwegian royal family.

King Harald spoke about the tragedy during his visit to Jordan with Queen Sonja.

"It will take time to move on, I think," King Harald told journalists covering the royal tour.

"We've got three grandchildren who have lost their father, so of course it will take time."

In December, during his New Year's Address, King Harald made reference to Behn's death.

"Some see no other way than to leave life. Those who remain must live on. Poorer – without the one they loved," King Harald said.

"The best thing we can do is be there for each other, see each other, remember to give each other the good words. And carry each other if needed."

King Harald and Queen Sonja ended their three-day tour of Jordan with a visit to the country's most iconic tourist attractions, Petra, on Wednesday.

The previous day saw the royal couple make a pilgrimage to the banks of the Jordan River to see the site where Jesus was baptised by John the Baptist.

The Norwegian royals were accompanied by Jordan's King Abdullah II and his wife Queen Rania.

Their two sons, Prince Ali bin Al Hussein and Prince Ghazi bin Muhammad, also made the journey to the religious site.

King Abdullah and Queen Rania hosted King Harald and Queen Sonja for the duration of their short stay, which included a lavish welcome banquet at the royal palace.

It was the first time King Harald has made a state visit to the Middle East, while King Abdullah and Queen Rania travelled to Norway 20 years ago for official engagements.

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