The Democrat Party on Saturday hit back at remarks by Cambodian Foreign Minister Hor Namhong, who accused "some Thai politicians" of turning the Preah Vihear temple issue against the otherwise warm ties between the two neighbouring countries.

M.R. Sukhumbhand Paribatra, deputy secretary-general of Democrat Party, a former deputy foreign minister and now serving as the Democrats’ shadow foreign minister, said his party was not happy after "an important person in Thailand’s neighbouring country" expressed negative views on politics in Thailand.

It was understood that the Cambodian foreign minister was criticising the opposition for bringing the temple issue to parliament this week - specifically the Democrats.

"The Democrat Party reaffirms its stance which benefits every party," said the Democrat’s statement.

"The party realises historical, architectural, cultural and religious significances, and thinks it is most appropriate to register Preah Vihear. But the registration must be carried out with proper principle and in line with existing atmosphere."

The shadow minister said his Democrat Party attached utmost importance on "warm relations and good cooperation between Thailand and Cambodia, but said that relations must be based on mutual benefits, understanding and a determination not to take advantage of each other".

It is not only the Democrat Party which is worried about what the Thai government had done on Preah Vihear, the statement said. Senators, journalists, lawyers, academics and representatives of the wider community are also unhappy.

The Administrative Court issued an injunction on Saturday ordering a temporary halt in carrying out further activities related to the Thai cabinet’s endorsement of the Cambodian map of Preah Vihear. (See details in Top Stories)

Foreign Minister Hor Namhong on Friday accused Thai opposition politicians of exploiting the cross-border dispute to advance their own domestic political agenda. He warned that they might endanger bilateral relations.

He warned that the Preah Vihear issue could "affect the very good friendship and cooperation our two countries have had so far." (TNA)