Bill Gates has publicly expressed deep regret for spending time with Jeffrey Epstein, calling his decision “foolish” and apologizing for associating with the disgraced financier.

Axar.az reports that in an interview with Australia’s Nine News, Gates said his interactions with Epstein were limited to dinners focused on philanthropy and global health fundraising, and he firmly denied any sexual misconduct.

Gates rejected allegations contained in newly released Epstein-related documents, including a claim based on an unsent email Epstein wrote to himself, which Gates described as false. He stressed that he never visited Epstein’s island, never met any women through him, and said his association had “nothing to do with that kind of behavior.”

The latest document release has renewed scrutiny of Gates’ past relationship with Epstein. His former wife, Melinda French Gates, said those named in the files have “some explaining to do” and spoke emotionally about the suffering of Epstein’s victims, noting that Gates’ friendship with Epstein was among the factors leading to their divorce in 2021.