Obama taped a video message for the European Olympic Committees XXXVII General Assembly, making a direct plea for Chicago to win the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

You can watch the video here, and read the press release from Obama's transition team:

WASHINGTON – Today, President-Elect Barack Obama delivered a taped video message to the European Olympic Committees (EOC) XXXVII General Assembly meeting in Istanbul, Turkey on behalf of the Chicago 2016 bid for the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

President-Elect Obama has been a longtime supporter of Chicago's bid for the 2016 Games. During today's EOC General Assembly meeting, the Chicago 2016 delegation presented their vision for the 2016 Olympic Games and gained feedback on Chicago's bid to host the Games.

In the video message, President-Elect Obama said, “In the coming years, my administration will bring a fresh perspective on America's role and responsibilities around the world. But if we are to truly meet our shared challenges, we must all work together. By uniting the world in a peaceful celebration of human achievement, the Olympic Games reminds us that this is possible.

“The United States would be honored to have the opportunity to host the Games and serve the Olympic Movement,” President-Elect Obama continued. “As President-Elect, I see the Olympic and Paralympic Games as an opportunity for our nation to reach out, welcome the world to our shores, and strengthen our friendships across the globe.”

ABC News's Tapper reported on the video this morning.

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