Kathmandu, June 5 -- Nepal's first open competition for ambassadorial appointments has drawn overwhelming interest, with around 3,000 people applying for 13 ambassadorial and permanent representative posts by the Friday deadline.

The government invited applications from eligible Nepali citizens for the posts on May 28, publishing a seven-page terms of reference outlining the selection process. Officials said applications were received from a wide range of candidates.

"We have had an overwhelming response," said a senior foreign ministry official. Officials said the figure includes some duplicate applications, as individuals could both apply directly as well as be recommended by others for the same position. In some cases, 10 application...