Obama promotes Chicago's bid for 2016 Summer Olympics

New York, Nov 22 (ANI): US President-elect Barack Obama is promoting Chicago's bid for the 2016 Summer Olympics.

According to the New York Times, Chicago has used its highest-profile cheerleader who spoke via video on the issue to European Olympic committees at a meeting in Istanbul.

"The United States would be honored to have the opportunity to host the Games and serve the Olympic movement," Obama said in the video.

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"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," he added.

From his home city, Obama has been supporting the Olympic bid, and the Chicago committee hopes his international appeal will help bring the Summer Games back to the United States for the first time since 1996 in Atlanta.

Along with Madrid, Rio de Janeiro and Tokyo, Chicago is a finalist for the 2016 Games.

The bid committees made presentations Friday to the European group, which includes nearly two dozen International Olympic Committee members.

The I.O.C. will choose the host city next year at a meeting in Copenhagen. (ANI)