France on Wednesday condemned what it called the "continuing deterioration" of the situation in Hong Kong after the arrests there of more than 50 pro-democracy figures.

"This development comes on top of the multiple pressures the press and the pro-democracy opposition have been subjected to over the past months, calling into question the possibility of democratic expression as provided for in the Basic Law of Hong Kong," said a foreign ministry statement.

Police in Hong Kong arrested the 53 people on charges of "subversion" in early morning raids, in their largest operation since a draconian security law was imposed on the financial hub last year.

The charges were sparked by an attempt by opposition groups last year to win a majority in the city's partially-elected legislature.

France's reaction follows in the footsteps of London, the European Union and Antony Blinken, US President-elect Joe Biden's pick for secretary of state.

"This subject is the subject of consultations with our European partners", the statement added, stressing that "solidarity" measures had already been taken.

"France reiterates its attachment to the autonomy of Hong Kong and to respect for the independence of the judiciary, the rule of law and fundamental freedoms, guaranteed by the Hong Kong Basic Law and the 'one country, two systems' principle, it said.

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