World leaders honoured former Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon during the first of two funeral services to be held Monday.

Sharon, who, died over the weekend after spending eight years in a coma was remembered for his strong character and sometimes controversial decisions.

U.S. Vice President Joe Biden said America's relationship with the state of Israel was unwavering despite some disagreements.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) U.S. VICE PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN SAYING:

"In certain instances, American leaders, American Presidents had profound differences with him. And they were never shy about stating them, nor was he. Through it all , the United States whether we agreed or disagreed or disagreed with a specific policy has been unflagging in it\s committment to the state of Israel."

Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair described Sharon as a political career.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) FORMER BRITISH PRIME MINISTER TONY BLAIR SAYING:

"And the same iron det