The announcement of the separation of the prime minister and his wife was made on both their Instagram accounts.

The PM’s reads as follows:

”Sophie and I would like to share the fact that after many meaningful and difficult conversations, we have made the decision to separate.

As always, we remain a close family with deep love and respect for each other and for everything we have built and will continue to build.

For the well-being of our children, we ask that you respect our and their privacy.”

In a separate statement, the Prime Minister’s Office says the couple signed a legal separation agreement.

”They have worked to ensure that all legal and ethical steps with regards to their decision to separate have been taken, and will continue to do so moving forward,” adds the PMO.

”Both parents will be a constant presence in their children’s lives and Canadians can expect to often see the family together.”

Justin Trudeau’s the son of the first prime minister to get married in office and also the first one to get divorced.

Late father Pierre Trudeau and Margaret separated in 1977 and divorced in 1984 — the same year the elder Trudeau stepped down.