MTV: We did not build a wall in Berlin

• Tweet

NEW YORK, Nov. 5 (UPI) -- MTV Networks International says it built a temporary fence, not a wall as has been reported, around its U2 concert at Berlin's Brandenburg Gate.

The Irish rock band performed Thursday in front of the 18th century edifice, a symbol of peace and reconciliation, and the site of the first European Music Awards show in 1994.

The producers of "MTV EMAs Present U2 at the Brandenburg Gate" distributed 10,000 free tickets to music fans in Berlin for the event, which marked the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin wall.

Reports circulated Thursday that a 6-foot-high barrier had been built to keep people without tickets away from the venue.

MTV delivered a swift response.

"MTV wants to ensure that the 10,000 music fans expected to attend tonight's production enjoy a safe and happy experience," the network said in a release. "The safety and well-being of all attendees at any MTV-produced event is of the highest priority. MTV worked closely with our local promoter DEAG, the borough of Berlin and the Berlin Police Department to create a comprehensive security plan for the event. To that end, MTV placed a temporary security fence around the site perimeter. Under no circumstances did MTV build a 'wall' of any kind in or around the U2 production site. We urge everyone to watch the event on MTV Networks around the world ... to see for themselves."