Senior US officials urged Congress on Thursday to support long-term military and civilian security assistance for Pakistan, which they say has been essential for the US-led fight against global terrorism.Members of Congress from both political parties were generally supportive of the plan, with some urging faster movement, particularly in providing new helicopters for Pakistan's military.The Under Secretary of Defence for Policy, Michele Flournoy, told theHouse of Representatives Armed Services Committee the level of importance the Obama administration attaches to defence cooperation with Pakistan.