Beijing will try its best to meet its citizen's aspiration for marriage registration on August 8, the opening day of the Olympic Games, Vice Mayor Ding Xiangyang said on Wednesday.

He made the remark at a civil affairs working meeting and said that citizens who want to register their marriages on the date, can fulfill their wish if they meet the Beijing registration requirement.

Ding also suggested on-line booking to avoid the registration jam. Through the Internet, only two days advance registration is required.

Chinese couples are keen to tie the knot on an auspicious date. August 8, 2008, is more than just a date, it marks both the opening of the Beijing Olympics and is considered a lucky day for marriage with all the number eights in the date -- 08,08,08.

Eight is the most auspicious number for Chinese who believe it could bring them fortune and happiness.

(Xinhua News Agency, April 3, 2008)