It is hard to think of two world leaders more ideologically and politically aligned than Tony Abbott and Stephen Harper.

The parallels are easily drawn.

Both lead conservative governments, have campaigned against carbon taxes, have slashed government spending and have learned a lot from former prime minister John Howard.

But Mr Abbott believes the Australia-Canada bilateral relationship is underdeveloped and has made no secret of his plans to leverage his "special friendship".

"The Prime Minister and Prime Minister Harper share a common view," a prime ministerial briefing document said.

"There is great potential for investment in our resources and energy sector and in infrastructure."

This two-day trip will be the first time the pair has held formal talks, with trade, regional security and the G20 on the agenda.

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Mr Harper will be a key ally for Mr Abbott as he looks to pursue his G20 economic reform plan, while Canada wants Australia to help it engage in security issues in Asia.

"I look forward to meeting Prime Minister Abbott on this visit," Mr Harper said in a statement.

"To explore how to further enhance bilateral relations and to discuss regional and international issues of common interest."

There is a view in Mr Abbott's office that any trip to the United States should also include a stopover in Canada.

Perhaps much of the mutual admiration can be traced to the links between Mr Abbott's Liberals and Mr Harper's Conservatives.

The parties have studied each other's successes for years and even use similar rhetoric, like "open for business", "a tax on everything" and "strong and stable government".

Mr Howard dispensed advice to Mr Harper when the future Canadian prime minister was in his country's opposition.

Mr Harper famously plagiarised parts of a Howard speech in 2003 - it led to the resignation of a campaign worker in 2008.

But now the roles are somewhat reversed.

Facing a budget backlash, it is Mr Abbott's turn to see if he can learn anything from the more senior, conservative statesman.

The flags are already flying on the main streets of the country's capital – he can expect to be welcomed with open arms.