Zurich to provide tsunami relief

Zurich, January 4, 2005 – Zurich Financial Services Group (Zurich) will provide up to USD 2 million to the South Asia region affected by the tsunami catastrophe. This sum will consist of a donation of USD 1 million. In addition, the Group will match up to USD 1 million in charitable contributions made by Zurich employees.

James J. Schiro, Chief Executive Officer of Zurich Financial Services, said: "The powerful tsunamis that struck South Asia over the Holidays are a human tragedy. Millions are in need of help. That is why we want to grant immediate relief, while ensuring that we can also provide long-term reconstruction assistance."

Under Zurich’s disaster relief program, employees can make contributions to a recognized charitable organization of their choice. Contributions made by employees between December 26, 2004, and March 31, 2005, will be matched dollar for dollar by the Group up to a total of USD 1 million. In addition, Zurich will donate USD 1 million to internationally recognized aid organizations for immediate disaster relief and long-term reconstruction efforts. It could be expected that the "Zurich family" made up of the Group and its 62,000 employees around the world will provide up to USD 3 million in total tsunami relief.