 He was named Pro-Prefect of the Pontifical Commission for Migration and Tourism in 18 September 1986, and his title changed to President when it was reorganized as the Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People in 1988.John Paul II made Cheli Cardinal-Deacon of Ss.Cosma e Damiano in the consistory of 21 February 1998.