India, Feb. 6 -- Microsoft co-founder and billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates has publicly expressed remorse over his past interactions with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, saying he regrets "every minute" spent with him.

The comments come amid renewed scrutiny following the release of a massive tranche of documents by the US Justice Department, reviving uncomfortable questions about Epstein's links with influential global figures.

Speaking to Australia's 9News in a televised interview, Gates struck a note of contrition while firmly denying allegations that emerged from Epstein-related correspondence now circulating publicly.

The newly unsealed documents, released last week, include emails, photos, and records involving promi...