This section is already a few years old. However, it is, IMHO, stupid (at least without further explanation) and does not apply in your case.
Publication 17 has this to say about who needs an ITIN
Nonresident alien spouse.
If your spouse is a nonresident alien, your spouse must have either an SSN or an ITIN if:
You file a joint return,
You file a separate return and claim an exemption for your spouse, or
Your spouse is filing a separate return
Since neither of these apply to you, you do not need an ITIN.
Also, the instructions for form 1040 for 2017 returns clearly states:
Be sure to enter your spouse's SSN or
ITIN on Form 1040. If your spouse
doesn't have and isn't required to have
an SSN or ITIN, enter “NRA.”
