Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his spouse introduced their separation

TORONTO (AP) — Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his spouse, Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, introduced Wednesday that they’re separating after 18 years of marriage.

The two mentioned in statements posted on Instagram that they made the choice after “many meaningful and difficult conversations.” A press release from the prime minister’s workplace mentioned they each have signed a authorized separation settlement.

Trudeau, the 51-year-old scion of one in every of Canada’s most well-known politicians, was sworn into workplace in 2015. Sophie Trudeau is a former mannequin and TV host. The couple have been married in 2005. Together, they introduced star energy to the prime minister’s workplace and appeared within the pages of Vogue journal.

They have three youngsters, 15-year-old Xavier, 14-year-old Ella-Grace and 9-year-old Hadrien.

The first woman has performed a much less seen position in recent times, hardly ever touring with the prime minister on official journeys. The two have been seen collectively publicly at Canada Day occasions in Ottawa final month.

“They remain a close family, and Sophie and the prime minister are focused on raising their kids in a safe, loving and collaborative environment,” the assertion from Trudeau’s workplace mentioned. “The family will be together on vacation, beginning next week.”

His workplace requested respect for his or her privateness.

Justin Trudeau and Sophie Gregoire met as youngsters when she was a classmate of his youngest brother, Michel, they usually reconnected as adults after they co-hosted a 2003 charity gala.

Trudeau is the second prime minister to announce a separation whereas in workplace.

His father, Pierre Trudeau, and mom, Margaret Trudeau, separated in 1979 and divorced in 1984 throughout the elder Trudeau’s last yr within the prime minister’s workplace.