(BEIJING, Jan. 8) -- Air quality control in Beijing was a success in 2006 with 66 percent of the year in good air conditions and a more ambitious goal was set for this year.

Last year, Beijing saw 241 days with level two on the air quality index or better and the annual target of 238 days was fulfilled earlier by Dec. 24. The target was once in danger as the city was hit by severe sandstorms last spring.

Du Shaozhong, spokesman of the Beijing Municipal Environmental Protection Bureau, said despite the bad weather, the city's air quality has been improving over the last eight years.

Du said air quality control topped the agenda of issues directly connected with the public.

He revealed this year's target to be 67 percent of the year or 245 days.

"We will carry out our on-going effort to achieve next year's goal." Du said on the eve of 2007.