Washington DC [US], June 11 (ANI): Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates on Wednesday told the House Oversight Committee that his association with Jeffrey Epstein was a 'grave error in judgment', expressing regret for the relationship while insisting he never witnessed criminal conduct and had no knowledge of the full extent of Epstein's crimes at the time.

In his remarks before the committee in Washington, Gates said he supported transparency regarding the Epstein case and backed the release of all related files.

'I support the release of all the Epstein files and sincerely hope that, through your efforts and those of others advocating on their behalf, the survivors of Epstein's crimes can get the justice that they deserve,' Gates said.

Addressing his relationship with Epstein directly, Gates stated, 'I never witnessed nor had any indication that Epstein was engaged in ongoing criminal conduct. I never went to his island, his ranch, or his Florida home. I have never victimised anyone.'

Gates said he was introduced to Epstein in 2011 through individuals connected to his professional and philanthropic work. According to Gates, Epstein claimed he could help raise billions of dollars for global health initiatives from wealthy donors.

'I recall being aware that Epstein had faced prior legal issues, but I did not fully understand the extent of the crimes he committed. I accepted the introduction without applying the scrutiny I should have,' he said.

The Microsoft co-founder explained that their interactions initially consisted of a handful of meetings focused on philanthropy and fundraising.

'The discussions focused on identifying potential giving structures, such as donor-advised funds, and how to enrol individuals he claimed were interested in making significant contributions,' Gates said, adding that he had made clear to Epstein that he would 'never play a role in any of the work or receive any compensation'.

Gates said he ended the relationship in 2014 after concluding that Epstein could not deliver on his promises to bring in major donors.

'At that point, I concluded Epstein would never deliver on his promises. I told him we would go no further and stopped communicating or meeting with him,' he said, adding, 'No vehicle for charitable giving was ever created, and no funds were raised.'