Microsoft Corp. Chairman Bill Gates said Wednesday that he feels "deep anxiety" about the current state of U.S. competitiveness.

In prepared remarks to be delivered to a Senate committee, Gates called for increased government investment in research and development, immigration reforms to attract more highly skilled workers to the United States, and improved educational opportunities.

"When I reflect on the state of American competitiveness today, my immediate feeling is not only one of pride, but also of deep anxiety. Too often we as a society are sacrificing the long-term good of our country in the interest of short-term gain," Gates said in testimony to be given to the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, chaired by Massachusetts Democratic Sen. Edward Kennedy.

© Reuters 2007.

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