Norwegian PM Backs Crown Princess's Admission of Poor Judgement

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre has expressed agreement with Crown Princess Mette-Marit's acknowledgment of "poor judgement" following revelations of her extensive contacts with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The Crown Princess appears hundreds of times in the recently released files by the US Department of Justice related to Epstein, covering the period from 2011 to 2014.

This development presents another challenge for the Norwegian royal family, coinciding with the impending seven-week trial of her son, Marius Borg Høiby, in Oslo. He faces 38 charges, including rape and assault.

Background on Crown Princess Mette-Marit and Royal Family Context

Princess Mette-Marit married Norway's Crown Prince Haakon as a commoner when her son, Marius Borg Høiby, was four years old. She is next in line to become queen upon her husband's accession to the throne.

As details of her email exchanges with Epstein surfaced, the princess issued a statement on Saturday:

"I showed poor judgement and regret having any contact with Epstein at all. It is simply embarrassing."

She further expressed her sympathy and support for Epstein's victims:

"I want to express my deep sympathy and solidarity with the victims of the abuses committed by Jeffrey Epstein."

Prime Minister's Response and Additional Criticism

While Prime Minister Støre did not extend his remarks beyond agreeing with the princess's admission, his implicit criticism is considered notable. He also commented on former Prime Minister Thorbjørn Jagland's conduct, stating that Jagland had exercised "poor judgement" after it was revealed he had planned a family holiday on Epstein's private island, although he later cancelled the trip.

Details from Epstein Files and Correspondence

The newly released Epstein documents reveal that Princess Mette-Marit spent four days at Epstein's Palm Beach residence in Miami in January 2013. Among the emails from the Crown Princess's official account, one message inquired whether a mother should suggest naked women carrying a surfboard as wallpaper for her son.

The tone of the correspondence has drawn criticism in Norway, with some messages suggesting that she was aware of Epstein's initial jail sentence in 2008.

Recent Royal Family Scandals and Public Reaction

The Norwegian royal family has faced several recent controversies, including the marriage of Crown Prince Haakon's sister, Princess Märtha Louise, to an American self-styled shaman.

As Norwegians anticipate the trial of Marius Borg Høiby, questions have arisen regarding Princess Mette-Marit's failure to recognize the harmful implications of maintaining contact with Epstein, as well as the role of her advisers in this matter.

Health and Legal Status of Princess and Son

Princess Mette-Marit is currently battling pulmonary fibrosis, with her medical team preparing to place her on a lung transplant waiting list.

Her 29-year-old son, who is not officially part of the royal family, denies the most serious allegations against him. Among the charges, one rape accusation involves intercourse while a woman was asleep, and three others allege sexual assault while women were incapacitated, which under Norwegian law also constitutes rape.

If convicted, Marius Borg Høiby could face a prison sentence of at least 10 years.

Trial and Royal Family's Public Statements

No members of the royal family will attend the trial, which is scheduled to begin at Oslo District Court on Tuesday.

However, Crown Prince Haakon issued an emotional statement to the press last week:

"Our thoughts are with everyone who is affected by this case... we understand that this is a difficult time for many of you, and we sympathise."

He acknowledged his stepson's position within the family despite not being a royal:

"We care about him, and he is an important member of our family."