Trudeau bringing Canadian star power to White House

Within weeks, President Barack Obama granted Trudeau one of the highest honors the U.S. reserves for close allies: a pomp-filled visit with plenty of time in private talks and in front of cameras with Obama, who remains popular in Canada.

Trudeau, accompanied by his wife, Sophie Gregoire, will be feted Thursday at a sparkly state dinner, the first of Obama's final year in office and the first for Canada since April 1997.

"Obama was delighted that Trudeau got elected," said Nelson Wiseman, a University of Toronto political science professor, offering perspective on Trudeau's speedy invitation.

Added Trudeau: "It's going to be a wonderful time of strengthening ties between our two countries both on the economic, on the security, on the engagement with the world and on the personal level."

Trudeau aims to restore his father's legacy as leader of the Liberal Party, a record that was under siege during 10 years of Conservative rule under Harper.

Justin Trudeau is a former teacher, nightclub bouncer and snowboard instructor who has three young children with his wife, a former model and TV host.