The president and CEO of the World Economic Forum (WEF), Borge Brende, has resigned following a review into his connections to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The forum ordered an independent review into Brende's ties to the disgraced financier after the release of Epstein files by the US Department of Justice.

Brende acknowledged dining with Epstein three times between 2018 and 2019 and communicating via email and text, but stated he was "completely unaware" of Epstein's past criminal activity.

The WEF said the review found "there were no additional concerns beyond what has been previously disclosed."

Brende, a former Norwegian foreign minister, also expressed regret for not investigating Epstein more thoroughly. He decided to step down after over eight years in the role following "careful consideration."

Epstein was convicted in 2008 for soliciting prostitution from a minor and was registered as a sex offender.

WEF co-chairs Andre Hoffmann and Larry Fink thanked Brende for his "significant contributions." Alois Zwinggi will serve as interim president and CEO while the board oversees the search for a permanent successor.

Source: www.bbc.com