Zurich unit opens branches in France, Sweden, Finland.

Zurich Financial Services Group said its European Union risk carrier for global corporate business opened new branches in France, Sweden and Finland as it seeks to expand its corporate business.

Zurich Insurance Ireland Ltd., the carrier for Zurich Global Corporate, opened the new branches, adding offices in Paris, Stockholm and Helsinki to a London office opened in May 2005. The division specializes in offering insurance for cross-border risks and related services for European corporate clients.

"This move sends a positive signal that we are serious about our commitment to growing our business in Europe and enhancing our product offering to our customers" said Geoff Riddell, chief executive officer of Zurich Global Corporate.

Based in Dublin, Zurich Insurance Ireland says it's the fifth-largest general insurer in the Irish market.