Bill Gates Backs Immigration Reform On Mexico Trip

Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates, the world’s richest man, said on Tuesday the United States should reform its immigration laws and give more flexibility to higher-skilled foreign workers.

Speaking at a conference in Mexico, the birthplace of millions of immigrants to the United States, Gates said reforms “would be helpful so we are predictable, so we are clear.”

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Mexicans make up more than half of the estimated 12 million illegal immigrants in the United States. Mexico is upset at U.S. plans to build a security fence along parts of the border to curb illegal crossings.

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Gates, who runs a foundation with his wife that is the world’s largest charity, said flexibility of movement for higher-skilled workers was especially important for his global company.

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In a recent address to a U.S. Senate committee, Gates said scientists and engineers from India and China working at his giant software firm routinely waited more than five years to get a U.S. green card.