European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said Wednesday that the "wind is back in Europe's sails" as the continent becomes more united and economic momentum picks up a year after Brexit.

"All this leads me to believe the wind is back in Europe's sails," Juncker said in his annual State of the Union speech to the European Parliament in Strasbourg.

"We have now a window of opportunity but it will not stay open forever. Let us make the most of the momentum, catch the wind in our sails."

He said "Europe can deliver for its citizens where and when it matters," even as nations remain divided over how best to manage the EU's refugee emergency.

Juncker also said Europe must continue to accept asylum seekers in danger, saying Europe must not become a "fortress."