Pope Francis has named 21 new cardinals, including prelates from Hong Kong, Jerusalem, and other regions around the world.
The new cardinals include several who hold or will assume important Vatican posts, such as the archbishop of La Plata, Argentina, who will lead the Holy See's office for ensuring doctrinal orthodoxy and overseeing allegations of sexual abuse against clergy.
The new cardinals also include a bishop from Hong Kong and the Vatican's top official in the Middle East.
Pope Francis expressed hope that Israeli and Palestinian authorities would engage in direct dialogue to end the recent violence.
The new cardinals are advisers to the pope and will play a role in electing his successor.
Eighteen of the 21 new cardinals are under 80 and eligible to vote in a conclave.