President Bush says the United States is sending cash, equipment, and eight helicopters to Pakistan to help with earthquake rescue and relief efforts. The president spoke to reporters at the White House on Sunday after a telephone conversation with Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf and a briefing from Pakistani diplomats. Mr. Bush offered his deepest condolences for the loss of life, and said the United States wants to help any way it can. He said the helicopters are being sent because Pakistan had expressed concern about a lack of airlift capacity in the areas hardest hit by the quake. The U.S. military also plans to send in planes with blankets, tents, plastic sheeting, and water containers. President Bush considers Pakistan a key ally in the U.S.-led war on terror. Pakistan was one of many countries that offered assistance to help the United States deal with Hurricane Katrina.