TEHRAN, Iran (AP) -- Iran has launched its first official matchmaking website, hoping to encouraging millions of singles to marry.

In a ceremony marking the launch of the site on Monday, Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Mahmoud Golzari said the estimated 11 million young unwed Iranians "justified the launching of the site."

The website, Hamsan.Tebyan.net, provides a platform for singles to post their profiles and specify what they are looking for in a potential spouse.

A board of mediators matches applicants after reviewing their age, education, wealth and family background.

The traditional role of Iranian families and local matchmakers in arranging marriages has declined in recent years. Under the Islamic Republic's constitution, the government is obliged to encourage marriage.

By The Associated Press